FALMOUTH Marine School Boat Restoration and Conservation students finished their biggest project to date recently, when Cadgwith crabber Minerva emerged from the Museum workshop looking like her former self.

Minerva has remained in the same family since she was built in 1934. Used by James Henry Jane as a fishing boat, at the end of her working life she was put in a shed with all her equipment. She lay preserved there until James' grandson Simon, and family, were keen to see her restored after 30 years.

The restoration of Minvera has involved repainting, making her strong, replacing the rusty fastenings, etc. Owner Simon Fletcher said: "It's amazing. I can't believe it's the same boat. The students have done a fantastic job. They must be very proud of their work. I haven't seen Minerva since I gave her to Falmouth Marine School so looking at all the work that has been completed is amazing."

Tutor Richard Barnett said: "We have all enjoyed working on Minerva and the students have shown great enthusiasm for the project. It's been a pleasure to be of guidance to them. We are all delighted with the finished product."

Student Astrid Haraldsen said of the project: "I have always wanted to work in a museum and the conservation of boats and all things to do with the sea is something I really love. It was quite a large project to work on for someone who is just starting out at restoring things and it was certainly a challenging but exciting project."

For a short time Minerva will go back to the shed she was rescued from with the hope that she will be displayed in a gallery in Cadgwith.