Jackie Diffey has lived in Bude, North Cornwall, for 16 years and can’t imagine living anywhere else. Since moving here, she has immersed herself in community life, particularly enjoying projects that enrich the local area. For her, the joy of helping others and seeing an idea come to life is always rewarding. She founded the local ReFILL Shop in 2019 as a social enterprise, offering plastic-free shopping, and was also a founding member of Sustainable Bude CIC. Currently a town councillor, she is proud to have supported the establishment of the Bude Literary Festival and a successful programme that provides support for local school children during the holidays. Jackie has three grown-up children, one of whom has recently returned to Bude with their partner and two-year-old daughter—something that makes Nana very happy!
What’s the story behind Sustainable Bude, and what are the next steps?
Sustainable Bude is a community-led group of volunteers working to strengthen the local economy, reduce environmental impact, and build resilience for a future shaped by climate change, one project at a time. The initiative began just before Covid, requiring an early shift in approach. We launched with online Zoom talks and film nights, and from there, we’ve developed a range of projects focused on growing and gardening, encouraging people to shop locally, and providing free home insulation to help save energy and money. Two years ago, we launched the Bude Community Larder. Led by our brilliant coordinator, Tanya, our volunteers collect surplus food from local supermarkets, as well as fresh produce from the Cornwall Gleaning Network, which harvests surplus crops straight from farmers’ fields. The food is available to anyone who can use it, regardless of financial situation, helping to remove any stigma around food assistance by framing it as part of reducing food waste.
Our next step is to establish permanent storage facilities, including a freezer and fridge, which will allow us to expand our offering and make the process easier for volunteers. This growth has been made possible thanks to support from Forever Cornwall, and we’re incredibly grateful that they approached us last year.
What makes Bude thrive, and what are the benefits and challenges of tourism in the local economy?
Bude’s location seems to attract independent-minded people. Perched at the very northeastern tip of Cornwall—already a long county—we’ve developed a habit of making things happen ourselves rather than waiting for outside help. That ‘can-do’ attitude has led to many grassroots initiatives that have gone on to be successful locally, nationally, and even globally. As a community, we pride ourselves on being as environmentally conscious as possible. Bude thrives because of its stunning coastal location and beautiful green spaces, and we are determined to protect them. Of course, tourism presents some challenges. When the school holidays begin, parking and traffic in our one-way town centre can be tricky. I always encourage visitors to explore alternative ways to get around, like walking or cycling—the canal path, for example, is a wonderful way to travel. But however you get here, the journey is worth it. And if you’re staying in Bude itself, I’d always recommend leaving the car behind and enjoying the town on foot—everything is within easy reach.
Have you always lived in Bude? How did you come to live in Cornwall?
I had holidayed in Cornwall for decades, first with my husband and later as a family—we just love it. I’ve always been drawn to the rugged north coast, though I also appreciate the gentler landscapes of the south.
Having spent so much time here, we eventually decided to ‘up sticks’ while the children were still young and move somewhere that inspired us and made us feel connected to the landscape. Bude was a bit of a lucky guess in terms of where we’d feel most at home, but it turned out to be exactly the right place.
What’s your fondest childhood memory of Cornwall?
It has to be the beaches—getting sunburnt (back in the days when SPF 2 was considered adequate!), playing in rock pools, bodyboarding, shivering after a swim, and then being wrapped up in a huge, snuggly towel. Beaches are the best playgrounds for children of all ages.
What are your passions beyond Sustainable Bude?
I love exploring the outdoors with my granddaughter, singing in a choir, providing reading support at a local school, and growing vegetables in my polytunnel. I also enjoy supporting live events—festivals, theatre, music—Bude may be small, but there’s so much going on!
Do you have a favourite hidden place or walk in Cornwall?
Rocky Valley, between Tintagel and Boscastle, is a favourite. There’s something truly magical about the walk through the valley down to the coast path, where you reach a dramatic gully with waves crashing against the cliffs just metres away—it’s exhilarating.
But honestly, the entire South West Coast Path is stunning. Wherever you are in Cornwall, you’re never far from a beautiful walk.
What’s your favourite time of year in Cornwall, and why?
I love the shoulder seasons—May and June, when the warm weather starts but the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived, and September and October, when everything calms down again but the sea is still warm. Some of the best beach days happen in early autumn when the light is golden, the water is inviting, and the pace of life slows a little.
What does the world need more of?
At the risk of sounding cheesy—compassion. It’s easy to get caught up in clickbait headlines designed to provoke anger or sadness, but if you take the time to look around, you’ll find there’s good in everyone.If we all made an effort to do something positive every day—even something as small as smiling at someone or having a conversation—the ripple effect could be immense.
Who are your heroes right now for making a positive impact in Cornwall?
Martin Dorey, Bude’s own founder of the 2-Minute Foundation (the beach-cleaning initiative) and a travel writer. Philippa Purchase, a friend, dedicated environmentalist, and town councillor. Liam Dart, who runs an amazing children’s holiday food and activity programme. His work was recently recognised at a national awards ceremony in Westminster, and it wouldn’t have been possible without support from Bude-Stratton Town Council.
Tanya Salisbury, the tireless coordinator of Bude Community Larder, who is on a mission to save good food from going to waste.
What three things would you take to a deserted island?
- Some packs of seeds—I love growing things, and nothing beats eating food straight from the plant.
- My bike—I love the freedom that cycling brings.
- And a hammock—pure bliss.
Community Conversations is a Forever Cornwall initiative, inspired by, and talking with, ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things—in all walks of life. We hope you enjoy following the stories and the links. Learn more about Jackie and sustainable Bude here.
