MORE than 130 competitors set out on the annual ten-mile race around Mersea Island.

They had to cross the island’s causeway, the Strood, on foot with their boats and race on again in the hope of winning a trophy or beating a record.

Children as young as 12 took part in the race, organised by the West Mersea Yacht Club.

The event, which has been running for more than 30 years, was hailed a great success by organisers.

Alan Jones, race officer, said it had been a glorious day, and a great community event.

He said: “It has been wonderful, we organise it every year and it is a real community event. All abilities take part.

“Most driveways in Mersea have little boats stored away, and they always get brought out for the event.

“It is all about people getting together to enjoy the day.”

The Coconut Trophy, for monohull boats, went to Henry Wells and Angus Pickles, who completed the race in one hour 24 minutes in their boat, named “B14”.

First prize in the catamaran category went to John Ready and Alan Morgon, who completed the race in one hour, six minutes in their Hurricane boat.

They currently hold the record, set in 2002, when they managed to circle the island in 56 minutes 3 seconds in their Hurricane 5.9 catamaran.

The race is sponsored by Ellisons Solicitors.