Each year the Port of Falmouth Sailing Association (PoFSA) partners up with a local sailing charity and in 2023 it was the turn of the Royal Cornwall Sailing Trust, writes Jane Wright.

At the PoFSA AGM a cheque was presented by outgoing PoFSA Chairman, Nigel Sharp to Robin Taylor, Holly Manvell and David Coglan from the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club Sailing Trust.

The money was primarily raised from donations made by competitors during Falmouth Sailing Week in August and matched by PoFSA.

The majority of children supported by the Trust are from local charities and organisations who support under-resourced families and communities.

Since the trust started in 2012, it has given several hundred such children from various local schools and organisations the opportunity to get out on the water on a variety of boats.

For many of the children, these are life-enhancing experiences with many of them having never been on the water or around boats before. Through time on the water, seeing amazing superyachts and exploring the National Maritime Museum, the aim is to give them an insight into a wonderful world which they could be part of.

In 2024 the following events are planned by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club Sailing Trust: A River Dance in April by kind permission of John Pill aboard the "MV Princessa".

This will be attended by up to 100 children and carers from many local organisations. June 4 will be taking a similar number out to view the Richard Mille classic yacht regatta.

The charity plans to use the "Hardiesse " from Southwest Sail Training for some trips in the summer and finally, they will holding an event to celebrate the life of Peter Flutter who was a great supporter of the trust.

Robin Taylor explained “We work closely with a number of charities and schools to provide an opportunity to experience the waters around Falmouth.

"This we hope will enhance the students lives and inspire them to greater things.”