A TOTAL of 80 people took part in a charity sailing club boat race.

The sailors climbed aboard for this year’s East Coast Piers Race sponsored by Zhik held by Marconi Sailing Club in Steeple.

The race, which this year was celebrating its 30th anniversary, sees competitors race from the club – out of the Blackwater Estuary and up the Essex coastline with a choice of either turning at Clacton or Walton Piers.

Competitors began to arrive early, giving them opportunity to set up and tune their boats.

A barbecue was hosted by volunteer club members which was washed down with ales and beers kindly donated by Suffolk brewery Adnams while guests danced the night away with music provided by the Monkies Wedding band.

A strong northerly wind meant the racers got off to a flying start.

Travelling downriver the boats travel along the coast, taking in local sights such as the former Radio Caroline Merchant Vessel, Bradwell Power Station and Mersea Island.

This year’s East Coast Piers Race was won by Grant Piggott and Simon Farren from Weston Sailing Club with the shorter Colne Point Race honours taken by Marconi’s own Jenny Ball.

The two main beneficiaries of the proceeds raised during the race weekend are The Cirdan Trust – a local company providing unforgettable sailing experiences for under privileged children and Essex Air Ambulance.

The total amount of money raised is expected to be announced later in the year.

Photos by Chris Kirby