A fleet of yachts from Thanet and beyond will descend on Ramsgate harbour this week for the town’s annual sailing regatta.

This year’s Ramsgate Week has seen a boost in entries, with almost 50 boats already registered to take part.

The event attracts several entrants from the Continent with French, Belgian and Dutch boats returning each year, and is seen as a showcase for Ramsgate’s famous Royal Harbour and the surrounding area.

Ramsgate Week is becoming increasingly popular as a smaller alternative to Cowes Week, which attracts thousands every year.

As well as the action on the water, bars, restaurants and other local businesses will be
welcoming extra visitors and creating a family atmosphere, and the yacht club will host a different live music act every night.

The regatta is organised and hosted by the Royal Temple Yacht Club, and runs from Monday until Saturday.

This year, a multi-hull class will join the traditional international rule and cruiser classes.

All competitors are invited to take part in the most prestigious race of the week, the Gold Cup. BAFTA-winning and Oscar- nominated actress Brenda Blethyn will be taking part as a member of the Sail Scarlet crew.

Competitors will be hoping to beat last year’s winner, Simon Northrop of Northrop Sails, who achieved the record in his catamaran for the fastest trip around the Goodwin Sands.

For more information, visit www.ramsgateweek.com.