Falmouth enjoyed a full day of commemoration activity for the largest seaborne invasion in history and to honour Falmouth’s role within this.

The day started with a wreath laying service in Kimberley Park, followed by an impressive 80 boat flotilla travelling down the Carrick Roads. It finished with the lighting of their beacon in celebration of the ‘light of peace’ that emerged out of the darkness of war.

Many Allied Forces troops were stationed in and around Falmouth during World War II and the flotilla travelled past some of these locations along the River Fal.

Beacon at Falmouth
The lighting of their beacon on Thursday evening (Picture: 3deep Media / Aerial Cornwall)

The fleet of vessels left from the area adjacent to Tolverne, North of the King Harry ferry and made their way down the channel of the Carrick Roads (the large body of deep water that separates Falmouth from the Roseland Peninsula), before ending near Gyllyngvase Beach.

Richard Wilcox said: “What a memorable day it has been. Falmouth did itself proud. The flotilla event will live long in the memory, with 80 boats adorned with UK and US flags to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D Day landings, making its way along the River Fal, past Pendennis Castle and coastline.

“All those years ago, this area played a crucial role, with troops stationed at Treverne, Turnaware Point and other locations along the river, and that is why we wanted to mark the occasion with an event such as this. Thank you to all who participated and helped organise with us.”

Pictures: 3deep Media / Aerial Cornwall