Hundreds of visitors refused to have their spirits dampened by light showers to help raise £2,500 for various charities at Hullbridge's annual Brandy Hole regatta on the River Crouch.

On dry land, a troupe of exotic belly dancers, an inflatable slide, traditional coconut shy, duck race and pony rides, provided most of the fun to keep the crowds entertained.

And out on the water the breeze spiced up the dinghy, cruiser, rowing and swimming races, which thrilled all the watching spectators.

The winner of the cruiser race was Geoff Skelton in GK29, Rumours. Gavin Morrison (Mystere 26, Miss de Mina) came second and Roy Hall (Verl 29, Verlition) was third.

Outright first place in the dinghy race was claimed by Nigel Darby in a Heron. Runner-up was Andrew Ince's Mirror and third spot went to Marcus Ingram in a Supernova.

Charities to benefit included the Lifeboat fund, Southend Toy Library, St John's Ambulance, Mind, Hullbridge scouts and Brandy Hole's cadets.

For info on the club's winter cruise race series please call 01702 230320.

Published Monday July 12, 2004

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