CROWDS gathered in Sharpness to watch the arrival of ships headed to this weekend's Gloucester Tall Ships Festival.

The Matthew, the TS Royalist and the Vilma arrived into Sharpness at around 11am.

They sailed up the River Severn and then waited until the tide got to its full height before turning into Sharpness Docks.

They then sailed up the canal towards Gloucester throughout the afternoon.

Gloucester's Tall Ships Festival is taking place in the city this May bank holiday weekend.

The event, which runs until Monday, May 27, features a fleet of tall-masted ships in Gloucester Docks, as well as maritime themed entertainment, including sword fighting pirates, sea shanty singers, plus games, food and drink, craft stalls, and more.

For details visit:

gloucestertallships.co.uk