On Friday afternoon, Mersea's very own Thames sailing barge 'Dawn' was guided into its central position in front of the town hard by Peter Clarke and the boatyard boys, providing a wonderful centrepiece to the West Mersea Town Regatta.

There were record entries this year for West Mersea Town Regatta sailing races. What a wonderful sight on Saturday morning to see the River Blackwater bathed in sunshine and filled with boats of every class. In particular the classic yacht 'Kismet' and the 15 Smacks, were a joy to behold for all watching from the esplanade.

Whilst this was happening the 30 stall holders were setting out their stalls on the car-park. The aim this year was to attract local crafts people and businesses and this was pretty much achieved. 'One Drum 'Ghanaian entertainers started the festivities at midday, literally with a bang; they encouraged everyone to join in with drumming and dancing. They were followed by Caroline Laver's 'Vocalise' the recently formed Mersea choir, who were then followed by local musicians throughout the afternoon. The unfaltering Ellie Scrivener sang through the sudden, unwelcome rain and at one point three very wet ladies were indeed dancing to Ellie's amazing 'singing in the rain'. At that point, one could have been forgiven for thinking it was all over, it seemed as if everyone had disappeared for good. However, a little later the sun came back with a vengeance and so did the crowds. Where they all went, I have no idea; my only guess is that the Yacht Club became extremely busy at that point!

Gathered on the Dawn in readiness for the water sports was the Colchester Mayor, Mersea Mayor, John May and Lady Mayoress Marion and our guest of honour Johnny Milgate. They were all wined and dined in the most hospitable manner courtesy of Helen and Gerard Swift of Swift boats and the Dawn Trust. The water sports, took place with an amusing commentary by Sarah Lunnon and Mark Jones. All races were well supported and hard fought. It was really exciting to see Olympic sailing contester Saskia Clark taking part and winning the single handed rowing race. The ever-popular 'greasy pole' attracted a large number of contestants, and the first pole was grabbed in record time by local man David Whiting - well done to him!

When the watersports ended the Regatta 'Song & Dance' kept the waterfront buzzing. You could join in a Ceilidh with John Leyland, dance with a pirate, very popular indeed or talk to a real mermaid who moved gracefully throughout the crowds. There was seafood from Stephen Stoker, home-cooked refreshments from Kim at the Blackwater Pearl, burgers and hot dogs from Cock's the butcher and sweet goodies from the Art Cafe. A bar and soft drinks was provided by Mersea Island Vineyard. Greg Dunn's Regatta Ceilidh band, a group of amazingly talented musicians played traditional music and songs of the Sea until the 7.30 prize giving. The climax to the day was, of course, the amazing firework display that this year cost £5,800. This spectacular entertainment enthralled everyone; this really was the best display ever. The total amount received this year from the bucket collection was £4,305, at present £1,500 short of the total amount but hopefully we will receive more donations this week to make up the shortfall. Financing future events depends entirely on the generosity of the people gathered and our thanks go to everyone who gave to the bucket collections on the day.