The first Falmouth seafarers' service was held last Friday in the chapel at the Seafarer's Centre in Bar Road.

The chapel, which has been restored, is dedicated to, the late, Padre Roberts, who "went on till he was 90, and liked to be where seafarers were".

The Rev. David Potterton, principle chaplain for the British International Sailor's Society (BISS), conducted the service with auxiliary port chaplain, the Rev. Pat Whittaker, and organist, Mr Stuart Paul.

Guests were Canon Bede Davis, who looks after the Stella Maris Roman Catholic Mission, the Rev. Ken Trunks, honorary port chaplain, the Rev. Jake Watson, BISS Director, and Father John Savage, missions to seafarers chaplain.

Also invited were Mayor of Falmouth Maureen Davies and her husband Bob, residents of Armyn House and other retired seafarers.

The BISS was formed 185 years ago and that work has continued ever since in ports, wherever seamen need help, explained the Rev. Pat Whittaker.

"At Armyn House, there is a rest home for retired seamen, a club and mission facilities for visiting seafarers."

Staff of Armyn House, Elaine and Sue, provided a buffet afterwards, enjoyed by all in the Seafarer Centre.

Asked if the chaplains had experience of the sea, Father John Savage said: "I know one end of a boat from another - I still race in the harbor with another vicar, Father Andy Stevenson from Truro."

"It is hoped that the service, will raise the profile of the BISS, within the local community," said the Rev. Potterton, who travelled from Southampton for the service.

"Following the chapel's recent refurbishments, we are keen for it to be used. It made sense to initiate an annual service."