Sea shanty and storytelling events will raise money for a headstone in memory of a shipwrecked sailor who was discovered on the Cornish coast.

The remains were found on a cliff above Newtrain Bay, Trevone in November 2022.

Radiocarbon dating indicates the remains most likely date from the 18th century, and analysis of the bones and distinctive wear on his teeth, believed to have been caused by biting rope, give strong evidence to suggest he was a sailor.

Cornish musician Toby Lobb and author Gareth Rees have each created a sea shanty and a book to commemorate the sailor.

Their works, titled Bury My Bones and Give Him a Little Earth, will be performed at a series of events to raise money for a headstone to mark the sailor’s final resting place.

The remains are due to be reinterred at Padstow Cemetery next year following agreement with Padstow Town Council.

Cornwall Council has commissioned a local artist to carve a bespoke headstone in tribute to all those lost at sea.

It will be positioned at the grave, which will also be used for further storm-washed remains as and when they are discovered within the parish.

Cornwall Council, Cornwall Heritage Trust, and Cornwall National Landscape Team have organised a series of fundraising events, including sea shanty and storytelling evenings, a talk by the archaeologist who excavated the remains, and a children’s activity workshop to fund the headstone.

(Image: Cornwall Council)

Councillor Martyn Alvey, portfolio holder for environment and climate change at Cornwall Council, said: "This man’s story has really captured the hearts and minds of the local community and I’m delighted that there will be a fitting memorial for his final resting place.

"I’d like to thank everyone who has helped organise these events which help bring this man’s story to life."

The events will kick off at 6.30pm on Thursday, October 10, with an archaeological talk by Dr Richard Mikulski from Cornwall Archaeological Unit at Padstow Social Club, with a suggested ticket donation of £10.

This will be followed by a book launch and Q&A session from 2pm and 4pm on Friday, October 11, featuring Gareth Rees and Dr Mikulski.

Tickets are £15 per person and are available on the Cornwall National Landscape website.

Next, a children's discovery club will be held on Saturday, October 12 from 10.30am to noon (tickets £9.38 per child), followed by a story-telling and sea-shanty evening at Trevone Beach Cafe from 6pm (£20 per person).