PREPARATIONS are well underway for this year’s Brightlingsea Regatta and Boat Show.

The free two day event, on July 7-8, will include sailing tasters, boat races, a continental market and fun things for all the family.

Outdoor theatre performances will be aired and there will also be events at the town’s outdoor swimming pool.

It is the first year the regatta and boat show has been combined, and it is hoped the move will make the event bigger than ever.

To make sure the whole town is included stalls will run right the way from the boat yard and The Hard down to Batemans Tower, with free stalls for local groups and businesses.

A special bus service will also run between the waterfront and town centre so visitors have a chance to see all of Brightlingsea.

There are also plans for a park and ride scheme on the day.

Kerry Kavanagh, one of the organising committee, said: “Everyone is getting involved with the event, from the beach hut association to the yacht club and local businesses, which is great.

“There is so much going on throughout Brightlingsea, and with some pubs putting on live music on the Friday and festivities going on until 9pm on Sunday it is shaping up to be a fantastic weekend.

“Times are so hard for everyone so it is nice to see people putting in so much of their time and pulling together to make this event happen.”

To get involved or organise a stall please contact Kerry Kavanagh on 01206 307623.