A plaque, designed by Michael Johnson of Newlyn Copper Works, has the registration numbers of fishing boats inscribed around the edges.

The Princess Royal was welcomed to the mid afternoon ceremony by Emma Jarvis and her two daughters, Kate and Josie.

The tragedy of their father Mark Jose remains fresh in the memory of many local people.

Emma was pregnant with their second daughter Josie when he was lost at sea in March 2004.

Ms Jarvis said it was a privilege, "especially for the girls" to formally welcome the Princess Royal.

The royal visitor talked with many families of fishermen who had died at sea before the unveiling.

Wearing her hair back with a gold clip, her navy checked suit was neatly accessorised with navy gloves and a scarf of autumn colours.

Before the red silk cover was pulled from the statue, The Princess Royal thanked the audience for inviting her to the special ceremony.

"It is a privilege to help you celebrate this new statue and to remember those who have lost their lives," she said.

In his opening speech, Douglas Williams MBE, whose own father was lost at sea 66 years ago, thanked the three local councils for their continuing work at the site.

The harbour commissioner said The Duke of Cornwall had been among the kind donors. "All of us standing here today know the true price of fish," he said. "The list of lost fishermen from our harbours is long....too long."

The Rev Julyan Drew and Supt David Whitehead, of Newlyn Mission, said prayers before helicopters from 771 Squadron Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose circled slowly overhead.

article copyright THE CORNISHMAN 

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