The world’s largest sailing race comes to Kent this weekend.

Bart’s Bash is the biggest of its kind and takes place at venues around the world in aid of the charitable foundation set up in memory of Andrew “Bart” Simpson MBE, a double Olympic medallist, who lost his life while training for the America’s Cup in 2013.

More than 54,000 people will take part at more than 800 venues across the world this weekend, with Bewl Water near Lamberhurst hosting on Sunday, September 17.

Organised by Bewl Sailing Association, the race will start at 11am and last between one and one-and-a-half hours, depending on conditions. The race is free to enter and open to anyone, sailing any type of boat.

A collection will be made for the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation, which this year has pledged to use funds to help promote and develop disabled sailing globally.

“Bart’s Bash has quickly become a significant charitable global race, and with such a dedicated sailing community here at Bewl Water, there was no question – we had to host it here,” said Andrew Daniells, chief operating officer at Markerstudy Leisure, the owners of Bewl Water. “Spectators are also welcome to come along and give their encouragement to those taking part.”

To register to take part, visit bewlsailing.club/information/contact-us.

For more details on the event, visit bartsbash.com