A 130-year-old heritage tall ship named ‘Leader’ has docked in Newry, Co.Down where it will be used for the benefit of the local community.

The Brixham trawler was formerly a survivor of the fleets of sailing fishing boats that once fished in the Irish Sea.

Northern Ireland Sailing Charity, Silvery Light Sailing, has received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £244,975 for the acquisition of the 1892-built heritage tall ship to host community sailing programmes and further expand their traditional boat building skills workshops.

Sailing from Bristol’s Underfall Yard after dry docking and a maintenance refit, the 130-year-old Brixham trawler, arrived at the Albert Basin in Newry, County Down.

The heritage vessel is again destined to become a familiar sight in Northern Ireland’s ports providing a unique sailing experience for local youth and community groups, public open days and festivals.

Further coverage from the Belfast Telegraph and also from Silvery Light Sailing’s social media channels @SilveryLight.