Falmouth Bay Blue Shark Competition Raises Money For Falmouth RNLI

£1750 Donated to Falmouth RNLI from Annual Event

The annual Falmouth Bay Blue Shark Competition has once again shown its dedication to supporting Falmouth RNLI, raising £1750 during its two-day event in early September. The funds were recently handed over to Falmouth RNLI Coxswain Jonathon Blakeston, Deputy Second Coxswain Elliot Holman, and Afloat Mechanic Andrew Edwards at Falmouth Lifeboat Station by competition organisers and local skippers Andy Howell and John Locker.

Record-Breaking Shark Catch

Despite challenging weather conditions on the second day, participants in the competition managed to set a new record by catching a total of 222 blue sharks. All of the sharks were released back into the sea after being measured and recorded, with many being tagged as part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) cooperative shark tagging programme. This initiative aims to gather data to help better understand and conserve shark populations.

Continued Support for Falmouth RNLI

On receiving the donation, Jonathon Blakeston expressed gratitude for the continued support from Andy and John, stating that the funds will be used to help the volunteer lifeboat crews continue their life-saving work at sea.

The Falmouth Bay Blue Shark Competition has become a staple event in the local angling calendar, drawing small boats from across the country. The enthusiasm and generosity shown by participants and organisers alike make a significant impact on the community, helping to support the vital work of Falmouth RNLI.

Photo: left to right: Afloat Mechanic Andrew Edwards, Andy Howell, Deputy Second Coxswain Elliot Holman, John Locker, and Coxswain Jonathon Blakeston. –  Credit: Maggie Howell