Special send-off for ferry after 49 years

A ferry which has taken more than 5.3 million passengers between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly is being given a special send-off as it retires from service.

The Scillonian III started carrying passengers in 1977 and is making its last voyage on Sunday, 8 November, with a special service on board and a flotilla escorting the vessel.

During its final voyage the crew will seal a special time capsule, filled with contributions from people who have taken voyages on the ship, to mark its 10,800 journeys over the last 49 years. The time capsule's final resting point is yet to be revealed.

Donations include photographs, pieces of memorabilia, artwork and keepsakes.

The ship, which can carry 486 passengers, is due to depart from Penzance at 09:00 GMT on Sunday and arrive at St Mary's at 11:45.

As she leaves St Mary's for the final time at 14:00 other Isles of Scilly Steamship Group vessels, the harbour master's vessel and a number of island gig and community boats will give it a special send-off.

The Cape Cornwall Singers are due to serenade it when the vessel arrives in Penzance at 16:45.

During its last week surveyors from whale and dolphin charity ORCA completed their final wildlife survey aboard the vessel.

Over the past 17 years, ORCA volunteers have completed more than 200 surveys on board, recording over 17 different species, according to Isles of Scilly Travel.

The replacement vessel Scillonian IV, which can carry 600 passengers, has departed the shipyard in Vietnam where it was built to be delivered to the UK.

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.