Hundreds of people packed the North Esplanade in Guernsey on Sunday for the Havelet Regatta, a seaside day out run in aid of the Guernsey Cheshire Home.
The Ezyrollers, Dash and Splash and Have A Go Row all came back. Sea swimmers and sailors took to the water, and dogs showed off their agility on the shore.
Organiser Barrie Duerden moved the regatta from its usual September slot to June this year, ahead of the summer holidays. He said the change meant more families could come along and donate.
Last year’s event raised £12,000 for the home. The charity’s own figures say more than 2,000 people attended. Everything on the day is free, paid for by sponsors, so no one is priced out. The programme runs from craft stations and fête games to beach challenges and a climbing tower, with beach wheelchairs and a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform for those who need them.
Duerden said the home has 11 residents, all in their 30s, 40s and 50s. “They want to live as best a life they can, and to be stuck in a home is so sad,” he said.
“We want to do what we can to help, and aim to make this event as accessible and sustainable as possible. We’re really happy with it. It’s been months in preparation, with lots of sponsors supporting, and it’s great to see so many people having so much fun in this beautiful space.”
