A NEW park and ride service will be coming to Falmouth when the town’s popular Sea Shanty Festival returns on June 12 to 14.

The festival has partnered with Falmouth University and University of Exeter to launch the Shanty Shuttle, a simple, stress-free way to travel into the town for the festival weekend.

Operating from the University's Penryn Campus and with approximately 2,000 parking spaces available, visitors can park with ease before jumping aboard the double-decker Shanty Shuttle, which will run continuously throughout the three day festival.

Festival-goers can opt for a family day pass, valid for two adults and up to three children, offering unlimited travel throughout the day, as well as single journey tickets.

The service will connect Penryn Campus with Ponsharden and The Moor in the heart of Falmouth - just moments away from festival stages, harbourside performances, pubs and sea shanty sessions.

More than 80 groups from across the UK and overseas are expected to descend on the town for a jam-packed weekend of jovial song, harbourside harmonies, salty shanties and deck stomping choruses.

Since its beginnings in 2004, the festival celebrates both the historic roots of maritime work songs and the global community of singers keeping the tradition alive.

Over the years the shanty scene has continued to evolve, with a new generation of performers bringing fresh energy to the tradition.

Richard Gates, festival committee chair and town manager, said: “The Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival continues to grow year on year, and we are delighted to offer an alternative travel option for attendees this year.

“The Shanty Shuttle makes it easier than ever to get into town and enjoy everything the festival and Falmouth itself has to offer."

To find out more about the park and ride service, visit: www.falmouthseashanty.co.uk/news/park-ride/