BRIDPORT Gig Club’s third regatta saw a great day of racing in the waters off West Bay.

Ten clubs attended from Hampshire, Devon, Somerset and Dorset to take part in races over a 1.6-mile course along the Jurassic coast, with three bowside buoy turns starting and finishing just off the pier.

The last leg ran parallel to the esplanade – making for exciting spectating.

Men’s, ladies, juniors, vets and mixed races spanned the day with lots of competition and close finishes.

Bridport did well to finish eighth overall after racing against competitive, more established clubs like Weymouth, Swanage and Ilfracombe.

The juniors put in a good showing in Dagger, taking second after being overtaken and narrowly beaten by Portland in their gig, Pulpit Rock.

Lyme’s team performed solidly too considering their squad were all 12 to 13-year-olds competing against juniors up to 16.

The ladies’ crews achieved a top-four place in the A section with the B side finishing second to Swanage.

Meanwhile, Lyme’s Vets bagged a creditable fourth place.

When racing finished, the prize-giving took place on Fisherman’s Green.

Trophies were awarded by head brewer at Palmers, Darr-en Batton.

As well as the racing, the club held a mini fete on Fisher-man’s Green, hosted by club members.

This was well attended and everyone enjoyed all the stalls on the green.

Also on display was the new racing gig Blaez, Bridport’s third boat, which had been purchased from Salcombe earlier this year.

Club spokesman Gemma Smith said: “We would like to thank many people for their help with the event, firstly to all the Bridport members who took the time to help with the day to make it such a success.

“Thanks to the harbourmaster at West Bay for all his help, Denhay, John Bright and Punch and Judy for their help on the breakfasts, Rachels, Palmers head brewer Darren Batton for presenting the trophies and providing the beer packs for the winners.

“Also, thanks to the sponsors of the programme, The River-side, Ellipse and Fish by the Bay, and finally to everyone who attended and helped to raise funds for kitting out our new boathouse.”

The club continues to attend regattas and raced Paignton last Saturday. Rame regatta is this weekend.

If anyone is interested in trying gig rowing or joining the club, contact the secretary at secretary@bridportgigclub.

org or visit the website at bridportgigclub.org