BOATS took to the Mere once more this month when the town’s Regatta returned for 2024 to raise money for charity.

The competition, on Sunday, July 7, saw 18 teams battle it out to be the winners across four categories and raise funds for Ella’s Army (brain tumour research) and Ellesmere Plantation Wood.

Spectators were treated to a very high standard of competition, considering the intermittent rain bursts that impeded the crews as they paddled.

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As the afternoon progressed crews developed better techniques for ‘Turning the Buoy’ successfully and good teamwork was shown by all.

Ellesmere Rotarian Geoff Corfield gave his thanks to everyone for turning out to make the 2024 Regatta such a resounding success despite the weather, both helpers and visitors.

“The whole event depends upon teamwork both on and off the water and we thank you for supporting our two worthy causes this year,” he said.

Senior Section winners were Go with The Flow in a time of three minutes and 48 seconds, while the Ladies Competition was particularly keenly fought, with Boats and Hoes winning the final in a time of four minutes and 27 seconds.

The Junior Competition was over the shorter course, with The Incredibles winning in two minutes 45 seconds. The Family Plate was won by Hall of Fame who posted two minutes and 56 seconds also over the shorter course.

A crowd of around 2,000 enjoyed the entertainment and stalls in the nearby Cremorne Gardens and thanks was given to many helpers including Martyn Humphreys from Specialist Boat Training, who brought two rescue boats; divers from Wrexham Seals sub aqua club; beach safety supervisors Mike and Sheila Dawson, Project SY12, Army Cadets from the Ellesmere Detachment of the Air Cadet Force under Lt. Craig Jenkins.

Event organiser Ellesmere Rotary Club was joined by fellow Rotarians from across the area.

Geoff added: “The two Bell Boats were loaned by Cheshire Scouts.

“Jane Cooper, District 1210 Governor for 2024/25, started one of the races and helped award the trophies along with Ellesmere Rotary President Jim Davies.

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The Raffle was drawn by Ellesmere Town Mayor Graham Hutchinson, who said: “Many thanks to Ellesmere Rotary for organising this stellar event in the Ellesmere Calendar and giving everyone such a great day out.

“Whatever the weather, the Rotary Regatta tells us that Summer has arrived in Ellesmere.”

Anyone wishing to find out more about Ellesmere Rotary can pick up a leaflet from the pop-up second-hand book shop in Robert’s in Cross Street, which is open on Friday and Saturday mornings through July and August, by kind permission of Debbie Hayward.