Last updated at 21:14, Thursday, 09 August 2012

Despite the thunder and torrential showers that had spectators running for cover, conditions for Maryport’s trawler race were perfect, according to organiser Gary Hampson.

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“The water was perfect. It was a fantastic day,” he said as the spectacular event lit up the Solway Firth on Saturday.

The trawler race was rescheduled, after the Solway Trust harbour festival, which was to include the trawler race, was halted by gale-force winds and rain in July.

But 13 trawlers from Maryport and the Isle of Man turned up for a second attempt and all went according to plan.

They were also joined by the Workington and Silloth lifeboats as well as Maryport Inshore Rescue.

Up to 400 spectators watched the event from the harbourside.

The day began with a blessing of the trawlers by the Rev Susan McKendrey.

The brightly decorated trawlers, adorned with patriotic flags, left the harbour and it was only as the race got under way that a heavy shower sent spectators running for shelter.

The race winner was Our James, a Maryport boat skippered by Shaun Poland, which arrived back at the Maryport dock within six seconds of its nominated time.

Second was the Sincerity, skippered by Howard Langcake, also of Maryport, followed by the Manx boat, the Venture Again, with skipper Michael Inglesfield.

The Venture Again was also judged best visiting boat.

A Maryport vessel, the Shannon, skippered by Sid Miller, was named best dressed boat while the crew of the Samlewette II, skippered by George Southwell of Maryport, had the best dressed crew.

Mr Hampson said: “They were dressed in white with windmills on their head. We never quite found out what they were but they might have been Robin Rigg [the offshore wind farm].”

He thanked sponsors Babcock, Eon and MPM North West.

Proceeds from the race, yet to be finalised, will be shared between Maryport Inshore Rescue and the Great North Air Ambulance.

First published at 19:19, Thursday, 09 August 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk