THIS year sees the end of an era at Cotehele Quay as the face of restored Tamar sailing barge 'Shamrock', Peter Allington, retires after more than 20 years.

But there is a new beginning in sight at the National Trust site as new recruit Shaune Blight will be taking over at the helm.

As the shipkeeper on Shamrock for more than two decades, Mr Allington has been the public face and knowledge bank of the attraction, seeing many changes along the way, and has played a major part in the barge's history.

His experience will be greatly missed, but Shaune Blight is working alongside him learning the ropes.

Shaune will spend this season gaining as much knowledge as he can before taking over as Shamrock's official shipkeeper next year.

He has already experienced what it is like to work for the National Trust by having to dress up in costume as part of filming for the 'Edwardian Farm', which featured Shamrock.

The next big challenge for the two men will be taking part in the Plymouth Classic Boat Rally which takes place at the end of July.

Mr Allington will still continue to be part of Shamrock over the years to come.