The first major sailing event held in Falmouth post-pandemic will bring hundreds of visitors to the town this summer - along with a poignant royal connection.

The British Dragon Association National Championships will see crews up of to four people in elegant nine-metre keelboats compete for the coveted Edinburgh Cup, named after the Queen’s late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh.

Among the boats entered is the historic sailing yacht Bluebottle which was given to the then Princess Elizabeth and her new husband as a gift for their wedding in 1947. This Platinum Jubilee year would have been the couple’s 75th wedding anniversary. Former Navy Officer Prince Philip was a keen sailor and passed on his love of the sea to his daughter Princess Anne.

Bluebottle won a bronze medal at the Melbourne Olympic Games, and still sails competitively despite her long heritage, thanks to a major refit for the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust.

Competitors from all over the UK, Ireland and further afield will be coming to Falmouth for a week-long series of races, starting with the South Western Championships. The event is being organised by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, in partnership with Falmouth Harbour, with input from sailing clubs including Flushing, Mylor and St Mawes.

Falmouth’s business community has also pulled together to help get the teams to the start line, and the event has also attracted support from sponsors further afield. A wide range of industries is backing the prestigious event: St Austell Brewery, Ancasta Marine, Allspars masts and rigging, holiday letting firm Classic Cottages, Penrose sailmakers, estate agency Jonathan Cunliffe, Tregothnan Tea, Delphis Eco UK, which makes eco-friendly cleaning supplies, and Falmouth Town Council.

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Race organiser Robin Taylor says the event, which will run from Saturday July 2 - July 9, will bring hundreds of sailors, supporters and spectators into Falmouth for an unforgettable experience. “It’s been hard work but it’s been incredible to see people coming together to keep Cornwall at the forefront of British sailing. Whether it’s the help from all the local sailing clubs, or the interest and generosity from our sponsors, there’s been a strong community drive to make this happen.”