THOUSANDS of people lined the streets and quay at Maldon for the historic town regatta on Saturday - but organisers have warned the event could be the last ever staged.

By Sharon Asplin

THOUSANDS of people lined the streets and quay at Maldon for the historic town regatta on Saturday - but organisers have warned the event could be the last ever staged.

The Indian summer brought people out in their droves to enjoy the regatta, which has taken place annually for more than 100 years.

But rising insurance costs means the day may not be viable in the future.

Quayside event organiser, Siobhan Dellamico, said: “The regatta is going from strength to strength each year.

“The aim is to entertain all ages of the public ashore and afloat and we distribute any surplus funds to local charities.

“But this year we had to have £5million public liability insurance, which cost us £1,000, and if this gets any higher it wipes out the profits. People don't realise there are loads of other costs to put this on.

“However, it was an absolutely amazing day. The Parade of Sail, when all the boats and yachts that have been racing in the morning sail up the Blackwater into the Hythe, was a truly magnificent sight and people were saying it was the best regatta they had ever been to.”

At the quayside, activities for youngsters included a crabbing competition, duck race and face painting, while older visitors could browse a range of stalls selling cakes, jewellery and photos of the local area.

Entertainment was provided by local group Alimah, who gave belly dancing displays, the Essex Samba Band and singing duo Live and Kicking.