A new heritage display celebrating maritime history and sailing traditions has been unveiled.
The exhibition, housed at Arnside Sailing Club, was officially opened by Councillor Helen Chaffey, Westmorland and Furness Council's Cabinet member for Communities and Culture, who represents the Kent Estuary ward.
Cllr Chaffey said: "I am delighted to open the Club’s new heritage display.
"Arnside has a significant maritime history.
"The new display tells the story of the village’s maritime heritage.
"Part of the role of the Council is to support local community organisations to develop schemes that help improve community facilities.
"I am delighted that we funded the new facilities."
The exhibition explores Arnside’s role as the historic port for Kendal, which once welcomed sea-going vessels carrying cargo from Liverpool, the West Indies, and the Baltic.
It also highlights the development of leisure sailing in the 19th century as large houses were built along the estuary, and the legacy of the Crossfields, leading builders of Morecambe Bay prawners and yachts.
Special guests at the opening included 92-year-old John Crossfield and his daughter Tricia, descendants of the renowned boatbuilding family.
The club owns 'Severn,' a vessel built in Arnside in 1912 by Crossfields.
Following a £150,000 restoration funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, grants, and donations, Severn recently returned to sea for her maiden voyage across Morecambe Bay.
Jane Caldwell, Commodore of Arnside Sailing Club, said: "I would like to thank the Council for the grant.
"We see our Clubhouse as a cultural hub for the local community and for visitors to the village.
"The building has a growing reputation for live music attracting nationally known acts.
"It is used for social events.
"The grant has enabled us to install the new display telling the story of the village’s maritime history and buy new music equipment."
The club plans to open the heritage display to the public on weekends throughout the summer.
Ms Caldwell directed people to check the club's website and facebook site for announcements.
She said: "The Club is charity promoting water sports and maritime heritage.
"We offer sailing and paddle board lessons to both adults and young people.
"We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to our new display."
