Countdown to The English Braids Falmouth Classics 2019

Falmouth Classics Parade © Mark Bridger

There's less than one month to go until the start of The English Braids Falmouth Classics 2019, and it's set to be the biggest and best year yet.

Keith Tullett, Chairman of the Falmouth Classics Association says "The team have been working hard, putting together the final details which help make our regatta one of the very best around. The number of entries is fast approaching 140, so it looks like we'll have a fantastic turnout as several participants register at the start of the event as well."

The Parade of Sail and Power on Sunday 16th June is set to be a spectacular sight, with vessels of all shapes and sizes sailing down Carrick Roads from 10:30am. They will be led by Royal Navy Patrol Boat HMS Trumpeter and minesweeper on station, HMS Middleton. The parade will be followed by the Falmouth All-Weather Lifeboat, the ILB "Eve Pank", the Cornwall Fire Service RIB, the vintage French lifeboat "Yvon Salaun" and the 1895 former steam yacht tender "Constance".

There are some very exciting entries this year, including some remarkable historical boats boasting rich maritime backgrounds and tens of thousands of nautical miles clocked. Among the ranks are former fishing boats, racing boats, and cruising yachts, some of which have travelled hundreds of miles to take part. To read more about the entrants this year, visit www.falmouthclassics.org.uk/participating-boats-2019

You'll get to see some of these beautiful classic vessels up-close and learn much more about their fascinating histories at the public opening of Falmouth Haven on Saturday 15th June. The Haven will be open from 9.00 10.30, collecting donations for Coast Medic. It will be open again from 16.00 18.00, with donations collected for Falmouth RNLI. The vessels available to explore are "Vigilance of Brixham", "Yvon Salaun" and Brest Bay scalloper and oyster dredge, "General Leclerc", which was recognised as a French historic monument in 2005.

The Maritime Village, sponsored by Tilley, has 14 exhibitors this year and there's lots to see and do. You can enjoy gin tasting, watch traditional marine skills being used and learn about ropes and cordage as well as find a loved one the perfect marine-inspired gift. See what Cowes sailmakers Ratsey and Lapthorn have to offer, purchase traditional boat building materials and tools, or even buy a Drascombe lugger. You can also learn about safety at sea and keeping our beloved oceans clean, and support the vital local charity, Turn to Starboard.

To find out more about The English Braids Falmouth Classics, including the full schedule of events and sponsors for this year, visit www.falmouthclassics.org.uk

Falmouth Classics Reception - photo © Max Willcock