Falmouth Harbour Commissioners and their business arm, Falmouth Haven, have stepped up support for the Falmouth Classics to become the headline sponsor for the 2020 June event.

Increased support for the Classics will provide Falmouth Harbour Commissioners with a number of opportunities to mark the trust port’s 150th anniversary, as part of a wider programme of activities that they will be supporting this year.

Chief executive and harbour master Mark Sansom said: "Falmouth Harbour Commissioners and Falmouth Haven have enjoyed providing support for several years, to what has become the largest heritage and classics event in the UK.

"We are excited by the opportunity to engage more significantly in the 2020 event during this milestone year. The Falmouth Harbour Commissioners and Falmouth Haven staff look forward to working closely with the enthusiastic Classics team to ensure a great event.”

To recognise the 150th anniversary Falmouth Classics Association is planning a spectacle within the parade of sail and power on Sunday, June 14.

At 10.30am HMS Exploit (P197), an Archer Class patrol vessel, will lead the parade towards Black Rock from Trefusis Point. She will be followed by barquentine Pelican of London and topsail schooner Anny of Charlestown.

A flotilla of the current harbour craft will be led by one of the current pilot boats.

Behind the modern craft the recently launched Falmouth Pilot Cutter “Pellew”, a reconstruction of the Vincent that served in the harbour from 1852 – 1922 will lead a fleet of sailing pilot cutters, some original and some recreations.

The oldest expected is the Cardiff Pilot Cutter Marguerite dating from 1888. The Falmouth RNLI lifeboats will lead the remainder of the parade, which is expected to be well over a hundred craft.

In addition to the special parade, the Falmouth Classics will be taking place from 12 -14 June will provide other opportunities for the Commissioners to promote their 150th year, including launching of a book about their history.

Keith Tullett, chairman of Falmouth Classics Association, said: “The association very much appreciates the increased support that the Falmouth Harbour Commissioners (FHC) and Falmouth Haven will bring to the 2020 event.

"The volunteer team looks forward to recognising FHC’s achievement during the event. The expected 200 vessels, including the two tall ships, will ensure a wonderful vista in the harbour recreating Falmouth’s past.”