The Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST) will be commemorating 40 years of liberation for the Falkland Islands, by flying a flag aboard its tall ship next month.

April marks four decades since the start of independence for the British overseas territory, and the global sailing charity is showing its support for the Islands’ hard-won freedom.

The JST, a charity which provides inclusive adventures at sea, teamed up with one of its young voyage-goers, Tamsin McLeod – born and raised in the Falklands – to mark the anniversary month.

Tamsin, 23, a sixth generation Falkland Islander, has sailed aboard the JST’s flagship, and approached the charity to ask for its help to celebrate the special occasion.

She said: “Since climbing aboard Tenacious for the first time, sailing has become a real love of mine. I thought it would be wonderful if the JST could fly a flag in commemoration of what is an extremely important date for me and many others.

“My time with the sailing charity has been truly inspirational and I’ve learnt so much – both when it comes to sailing a ship and about myself. I’ve also met some great friends along the way. To see the Falklands flag flying high out at sea in April, will be truly fantastic.”

A significant date in history, JST’s Chief Executive, Patrick Fleming, didn’t think twice about supporting the 40^th anniversary.

He said: “As soon as Tamsin approached us, we knew we wanted to help. It’s important for us to pay tribute to the courage shown and the sacrifices made in the Falkland Islands in 1982, as well as to celebrate how far they’ve come in the last 40 years.

“As a charity we give people of mixed abilities the freedom to explore their potential at sea, and we’ll be flying a flag for the four decades of freedom Falkland Islanders have been able to enjoy since the conflict.”

Forty years ago on 2 April 1982, Argentine forces invaded and occupied the Falkland Islands. Three days later, on 5 April, a UK task force set sail to recapture the Islands and restore freedom for the Islanders.

Following several weeks of intense fighting, Argentine forces surrendered on 14 June 1982, a date that has since been known in the Falkland Islands as ‘Liberation Day’.

Tamsin McLeod first sailed with the JST four years ago when she was 19, during her gap year.

If you’re interested in taking a voyage, find out more information and book your space here.