BURNHAM Week regatta has got underway as hundreds of boat-lovers gathered to race down the River Crouch and watch the popular sailng events take place.

The weekend began with multiple races to kick start the event as yachts and day boats took to the water.

Many of the boats taking part were designed and built in Burnham and can be seen until the end of the week.

The regatta will end on Saturday with final trophies and a firework show at 9pm on the river.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

Sally Harbott, commodore of Burnham Sailing Club, said: “The weather provided an amazing start to Burnham Week this year, sunny with a good North Easterly breeze meaning all sailing was in perfect conditions.

“The dinghies raced up river in front of the Burnham Sailing Club and the boats had superb racing, really close around the course.

“The yachts were enjoying very competitive close racing and tucked right in under the Burnham shore so spectators down the seawall were able to watch at close quarters.

“The day boats are always large classes in Burnham Week. The RBODs had a huge fleet for their 90th anniversary year and provided a colourful site for all to see.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

“These locally designed and built classics continue their celebrations through the week.

“The ECODS, also all Burnham built boats, were excellent to watch with two different rigs in the fleet, both gaff and Bermudan fighting it out afloat.

“As well as these fleets, the sleek dragons were racing with Elites, RCODs and of course the iconic squibs with their tan sails with over 30 racing.

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“The Sandhoppers also came back to Burnham Week this year after a long absence and it was fantastic to see them and their easily recognisable blue sails back round here.

“The week continues and all eyes look towards the prestigious final Saturday trophies and of course look forward to the fireworks on the river.”