THOUSANDS of people flocked to the Wivenhoe waterfront for the town’s spectacular regatta event.

Boats of all shapes and sizes went head to head in a series of races along the River Colne on Saturday.

Organisers say this year’s annual regatta event produced one of its best ever turnouts, with more than 3,500 people taking to the water’s edge to enjoy the show and soak in the summer sun.

Nenah Troendle said: “People are saying it is one of the best regattas they have ever been to, it was such a good day.

“The sun certainly helped and so many people decided to come down. It was spectacular.

“It really surpassed previous years and we think we got about 1,000 more people down at the waterfront than we normally do.

“One of the highlights for us was the Wivenhoe gig Audacity winning its race. That was a great moment and just made the day even more special.”

As usual the event’s regatta’s raft race event produced comedic results, with the team from The Station pub triumphing.

Organisers also thanked the event’s sponsors, including the East of England Co-op.

Mrs Troendle added: “Our regatta relies totally on donations are we are so grateful to everyone who makes it possible."