VOLUNTEERS from Cornwall Maritime Trust (CMT) kicked off the sailing season with a day of maintenance in Newlyn’s Old Quay and a celebration of the recent win for their unique historic lugger, ‘Barnabas’ as Classic Boat Magazine’s ‘Centenarian of the Year’.

It was a chance for those who work so hard to maintain and sail the 143 year old, St Ives Mackerel Driver, to see and hold the magnificent silver trophy sponsored by the Swiss, Gstaad Yacht Club. After a busy morning painting the hull, a hearty cheer went up, as chairman Toby Floyer raised the dazzling trophy for all to see.

Perseverance and longevity were the theme for the day, with support from two historic businesses, who, like Barnabas, began their life in the second half of the 19th Century, and, like the 143 year old wooden boat, are still going strong.

Warrens Bakery, provided saffron buns, echoing the ancient Sunday School ‘Tea Treat’ tradition that Barnabas’ builder and faithful Methodist, Henry Trevorrow would have known so well. The last remaining family silversmiths in the world, German craftsmen, Robbe & Berking, created the splendid trophy.

The CMT has much to celebrate, with Barnabas having also been crowned as one of National Historic Ships UK’s four ‘Flagships of the Year’ and five young CMT sailors qualifying as Royal Yachting Association ‘Day Skippers’ through the Trust’s education programme.

This programme couples modern day sailing training, through the RYA, with regular Trust training sessions in its mission to keep heritage sailing skills alive for future generations to enjoy.

As well as welcoming five new RYA Day Skippers into starting their skippering career, the CMT is keen to welcome knowledgeable sailors who want to experience the unique dipping lug rig.

CMT chair Toby Floyer said: “Sailing our amazing vessels is the lifeblood of our work. As well as welcoming those new to sailing, we want to hear from sailors who might have a good few miles under their belt already, and who want to take on the challenge of skippering our vessels and bringing on the next generation”.

To find out more about the Cornish Maritime Trust, visit: cornishmaritimetrust.org