A Cornish port will be a hive of activity next month as one of sailing's most popular events comes to town.
Fowey marks the finishing line for this year's Saltica Race – a bi-annual event in which some 20 yachts will go head-to-head over the 250 miles from the French town of Pornichet to the south Cornwall coast.
The event, which alternates between Fowey and San Vicente in northern Spain, will see competitors arrive on May 5-6.
Crews will leave the harbour, which will be closed to all commercial traffic, for the return leg on May 9 in what should prove to be an inspiring sight.
While in port, hosted by the Royal Fowey Yacht Club, the 100-plus French crew members will be invited to sample Cornish cream teas, join in with sea shanties and enjoy morris dancing. They are also being invited to join racing aboard the Troy class boats which are unique to the port.
The sailing spectacular coincides with the start of this year's Fowey Festival of Words and Music, formerly the Du Maurier Festival, which runs from May 8-18.
The 11-day celebration of the arts features an eclectic programme of music, drama, literary greats and films combined with walks, talks and excursions.
