The joint founder of Pendennis has passed away unexpectedly "leaving a hole" at the heart of the shipyard it has been announced.

Henk Wiekens, was managing director of Pendennis Shipyard, and passed away earlier today.

Henk has been instrumental in the growth and development of Pendennis and has inspired generations of talent from all areas of the marine industry.

A statement issued by the shipyard said: "We are sad to announce the death of Henk Wiekens, joint founder and Managing Director of Pendennis Shipyard, who passed away earlier today. Words cannot express what a hole this leaves in the Pendennis family.

"Henk has been instrumental in the growth and development of Pendennis and has inspired generations of talent from all areas of the marine industry. "Henk was so proud and felt privileged to have worked with so many wonderful people over the years and his love for life, energy and endless enthusiasm will be missed by many across the world and of course by the whole team at Pendennis.

"Our thoughts are with his much-loved family."

The company was born out of a local yacht building firm that was acquired by Peter de Savary and then relocated to Falmouth Docks in 1988.

A management buy-out in 1993 by Mike Carr and Henk, helped by Peter De Savary, was followed by their first project - a major rebuild of the 1903 classic 170ft schooner Adela.

When Mike and Henk took over the yard between 70 and 80 staff were on site.

Pendennis now employs over 450 highly skilled tradespeople and has won over 20 awards in the past 30 years for business and training commitments.

Pendennis Shipyard is one of the world’s leading superyacht refit and custom build facilities renowned for its diverse sailing and motor yacht projects.

Based in its 14 acre waterfront location in the thriving maritime town of Falmouth, Pendennis employs over 450 highly skilled tradespeople and has seen its people ethos rewarded with over 20 awards since its foundation.

Pendennis’ heritage and experience include more than 300 refit projects and over 30 custom-made build projects and has been involved with some of the most iconic yachts in the world.