St Ives echoed to the sound of rousing shanties and lyrical sea songs following the staging of a popular festival. 

Audiences packed seven of the town’s hostelries to attend the 2023 St Ives Shanty Shout, which included the Bier Huis Grand Café, Café Art, Golden Lion, Harbour View House, Pilchard Press, The Queens and The Western Hotel. 

Coordinated by a group of friends who love shanties in conjunction with Friends of Edward Hain Centre, over 140 singers descended on the town from near (The Shantillies, Spaven Mor, The New Minstrels and Cork an Barbor) and far (Halifax’s Kimber’s Men).  

The St Ives Shanty Shout raised more than £2,200 for the local St Ives based charity, Friends of Edward Hain Centre. The local fundraisers were ably assisted by ‘Betty – Cornwall’s Charity Maid. 

A spokesperson said: “Thanks to the enthusiasm of visiting groups and their audiences, impromptu “shouts” went on late into the evenings. 

“The event would not have been possible without the generous support of the venues. 

“Sarah and her team would like to thank all the groups, venues and supporters for making this year’s event such a success.  

“In the words of Kimber’s Men, who travelled to the Cornish town from Yorkshire: “Thank you all again so much for your great hospitality this weekend. We had an absolute ball and think this was the best one yet!”.