FOR the first time in the event's history a water umpire will be present during the J Class Regatta races in Falmouth.

International standard judge Alfredo Ricci will be on the water each day as the boats battle it out for first place between June 23 and 27.

The series of races hosted by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club will also see jury members not present in Falmouth for the first time, with Skype to be used if they are required.

With the yachts starting to line-up already for the event, with Lionheart, Velsheda and Ranger moored at Pendennis Marina, organiser Robin Taylor said the new judging innovations come as technology has improved locally.

Taylor said: "Getting a jury of world-class experts together in one place is often difficult, and thanks to Cornwall's new super fast broadband, we are now able to facilitate a jury hearing across the world over Skype.

"High speed broadband was introduced in Cornwall to enhance local businesses and support international events such as the J Class Regatta coming to Cornwall."

There will be five races in the series this year, each starting at 10.50am, with a practice being held on June 22.

A prize giving ceremony will take place on June 27 at Event Square, beginning at 5pm.

Louise Morton, secretary of the J Class Association, said: "We are now putting the final touches to the 2015 J Class Falmouth Regatta.

"We are looking forward to a great regatta and will be providing information on good viewing vantage points for the many people that want to see the magnificent Js race."

For more information, visit www.jclassyachts.com.