The process of returning the boats into Porthleven Harbour began this morning.

The harbour has been empty since the middle of February – the first time it has been totally cleared of boats since 1903.

It was as a result of storm damage to the harbour, caused by huge waves breaking and washing away the baulk defences. This led to three boats being unsalvageable and ten in total sunk.

To prevent any more being lost, harbour master Phil Ward ordered the harbour to be emptied and the boats have been on dry land ever since.

Some of the smaller vessels were the first to be returned today, with the larger ones due to be craned in tomorrow and the work potentially carrying on into the weekend.

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet: