The annual Maldon Town Regatta will return to Hythe Quay this Saturday (September 16) from 10am.

This year's event will see the racing begin at 8am. Smacks and old gaffers, traditional and modern yachts will race upriver from West Mersea to Osea Island. From there, a second race will lead the vessels to the town, berthing at high water.

A variety of stalls will be open from 8am on the quay, with entertainment on offer throughout the day. Plume Academy students will provide music from 10.30am.

At noon, a traditional Punch and Judy show will entertain children. Local shanty crew Salt, Water and Beer will perform at 12.45pm.

WATCH Salt, Water and Beer perform outside the Maeldune Centre for Heritage Open Days last weekend:

The Parade of Sail will take place at 1pm, followed by a rubber duck race at 1.30pm. A local Morris side will dance on Hythe Quay at 2pm.

Another Punch and Judy show will close the day's entertainment, before the prizegiving at 4pm.

Last year, Maldon Town Mayor Andrew Lay was invited to present the awards at the Sail Loft Yard, overlooking the River Blackwater.

For more information about this year's event, visit the Maldon Regatta website.

Take a look at the recent Heybridge Basin Regatta, which was held in June:

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