Three Victorian lady woodcarvers who became highly regarded professionals are the subject of a talk tomorrow (Tuesday Sept 10) at St George’s Church Hall in Truro.

Truro Old Cornwall Society and Truro Civic Society join welcome Helen Wilson, author of The Remarkable Pinwill Sisters (published by Willow Productions at £30) from 7.30pm.

The trio’s father thought they should have a trade, leading them to defy the social norms of the Victorian period and ply their craft at a time of enthusiastic church building.

By the time the sisters retired they had established a factory in Plymouth and had a national reputation for fine work in many types of wood. Today, their work enhances many churches, not least Truro Cathedral and across Cornwall.

In an illustrated talk, Helen’s will describe their career and struggles to establish themselves as serious craftspeople and as pioneering women.

Truro OCS president Bert Biscoe said: “We’re very grateful to Helen Wilson for agreeing to speak in Truro. Her book - lavishly illustrated, very well-made and the outcome of a great study undertaken over many years – will be available on the night.”

Entry is £3 per person (free to members of the two societies). The nearest car park is Edward Street (by the Crown Court).