BERE Ferrers Watersports got off to a fine start earlier this month — the sun shone and the Carnival Queen Kira Turner, together with her attendants Charlotte Jago and Ruby Overnell, officially opened the popular annual event.

Margaret Willmott and Margaret Ball had organised the entertainment to interest and amuse the many locals and visitors who crowded around the picturesque quayside by the River Tavy.

Crab catching is always popular among the children, however, this year there were also opportunities to wiggle a fish, float a boat and decorate biscuits courtesy of ‘Messy Church’.

Several charity stalls were rather busy raising funds. They included ‘CHICKS’ (Country Holidays for Inner City Kids), St Andrew’s Church, Bere Ferrers, and Camps International. The greasy pole provided much merriment, and Maurice Crout staged some of his vintage motorcycles.

Bere Ferrers Women’s Institute provided home made refreshments and the barbecue and beer tents were in great demand all afternoon. The ice cream vendor and sweet stall also did a roaring trade.

Adam Smith was MC and worked extremely hard. Robin Musgrave co-ordinated the teams for competitive games, together with Adrian and Victoria.

The event continued into the evening with the hog roast and eclectic music provided by ‘Aftershock’.

Thanks were expressed to the organisers and all of their helpers, especially to all the generous sponsors.

Pictures by James Bird.