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 his boatyard team, providing a wonderful centrepiece to the West Mersea Town Regatta. Several houses and shops had decorated their frontage to the Coast Road with a Jubilee theme, which brightened up the whole road during Mersea Week and the Regatta.

On Regatta Saturday the dreadful weather forecast was disappointingly accurate - it rained and blew the whole way through the watersports. Stall holders on the car-park were struggling with gazebos and stock and the Regatta tent nearly disappeared into the sky until it was anchored down.

Entertainment started with 'One Drum', the Ghanaian entertainers who were then followed by local musicians throughout the afternoon and evening.

The water sports took place with almost continuous rain, but the commentary by John Jowers kept everyone amused. All races were well supported and hard fought. It was really exciting to see Olympic sailing silver medallist Saskia Clark taking part and winning the single handed rowing race for the second year running. The ever-popular 'greasy pole' attracted slightly less contestants than normal - I don't know why, they were going to get wet anyway!

Just after dark and later than usual due to the late tide, an extra special 'Jubilee' firework display really was spectacular, even more than normal. Entertainment on the car park then continued until about midnight.