FINAL preparations are being put in place for one of the longest running yacht regattas in the UK, Burnham Week.

A packed eight-day festival, from this Saturday to Saturday September 3, of sailing events and popular social occasions are expected to draw the crowds.

Entries are flowing in for the races, which means top class competition is expected in all of the 15 different fleets taking part this year.

The regatta is organised by the Joint Clubs’ Committee, comprising representatives from the four clubs in Burnham – the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, the Royal Burnham Yacht Club, the Crouch Yacht Club and the Burnham Sailing Club - together with other members who have a specific responsibility during the week.

The festival shore side spirit that Burnham Week is known for looks set to continue alongside the many racing ships. Quay Day was introduced in 2013 and has been enjoyed by hundreds of visitors over the years, taking place this year on the Bank Holiday Monday during the midst of the races, it will line Burnham’s Quay with stalls, games and entertainment throughout the day.

Spectators will also be able to watch the races start from the quayside, and a special display of gig racing.

Racing, and social events run throughout the week, culminating with the grand firework display to send off the end of the regatta and celebrate the winner of the Town

Cup, the trophy that has been presented to the winner of the final Saturday race since 1927.

Burnham Week’s annual regatta raises funds for the helps to support the Essex Air Ambulance and RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution), and first began in 1893.

In its early years, Burnham Week was regarded as the last event in the UK sailing calendar.

In the days before marinas could afford year-round access, many yachts were laid up for the winter in mud-berths on the East Coast Rivers.

The racing fleets worked their way along the south coast, enjoying various events and regattas, having a final fling at Burnham before laying up.

A free Burnham Week guide, which includes a brief explanation of the racing and class identification, as well as information on all the shore side events, is available at shops and sailing clubs throughout the town. For more information, visit burnhamweek.com.