LOOE'S lugger regatta held over last weekend in ideal weather was a resounding success, with hundreds of visitors lining the cliffs and Hannafore for the best viewpoints during some exciting and visually spectacular racing.
The lugger Guide Me, out of Gweek, but built in Looe, was as usual the front runner in the prestigious race for luggers over 40', but she had some strong competition this time from the Reliance of Penryn, which newly renovated and 98 years old, will hopefully return to the next regatta to celebrate her centenary.
Guest of honour throughout the weekend, was former local boatbuilder and octogenarian Alan Pape, who presented the racing trophies on the the fish market on Sunday evening, accompanied by his wife Nina.
Not only was the lugger event an excellent promotion for Looe, but it also did much for the local economy throughout the weekend.
More than 60 people from Brixham in Devon, who came with 11 luggers from the port, stayed in bed and breakfast accommodation, and a party of 40 came with the two Breton boats.
'It was a great weekend for Looe all round' said committee secretary Jonathan Brice.