by Graham Tutthill

gtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

The sun shone on Dover Regatta with the crowds turning out in their thousands to enjoy the two-day event.

On Saturday the dragon boat racing and an air sea rescue display were among the highlights of the day, and on Sunday the Parade of Sail and a visit by Olympic wind-surfing bronze medallist Bryony Shaw were among the attractions.

It is one of the busiest weekends of the year, with Dover Carnival on Sunday evening as well.

The regatta began with the raising of a flag by Dover Sea Cadets and the start of the dragon boat racing heats.

Shark Express, a team of members from Dover Rugby Club, notched up the fastest time but it was the Dover Water Polo Club team, Dragon Express, (pictured left) who emerged as winners in the final.

An air-sea rescue helicopter from RAF Wattisham flew in for a display of their skills with the crew of Dover Lifeboat, rescuing a "casualty" from the sea, and winching him up into the helicopter before returning him to the lifeboat.

A roadshow and beach party on Saturday evening culminated in a fireworks display, sponsored by Dover Town Council.

On Sunday, more sea swimming, taster sessions and races with Dover Rowing Club, and two charity fun-runs were amiong the activities.

Bryony Shaw, who has her sights set on a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, gave a windsurfing masterclass and a talk about her experiences.

The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Tigers parachute display team dropped in, with all three parachutists landing on or very close to the cross marked out on the beach.

The regatta weekend finished with a Songs of Praise, including the lowering of the flag and the sounding of Last Post.

Newfoundland dogs gave displays and there were other attractions, stalls and amusement rides on the seafront.

Full report and pictures in this week's Dover Mercury, out on Thursday.

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