Bures Coracle Regatta
Our event is all about meeting up with like minded people and paddling around a bit. Everyone is welcome to join us from beginners to experts. We are all about getting people on the water and enjoying these historic craft.
During the lockdown, there must have been a few twitchy coraclers when August Bank Holiday Monday came around. So when the annual Ironbridge Coracle Regatta returned last year, there was a sense of things getting back to normal. Like Christmas Day, it's a fixed date in the calendar.
Last year's event was very successful, albeit on a reduced scale. Gerwyn and I have retired after looking after the regatta since Moses was a competitor. The Ironbridge Coracle Trust have taken over with a long overdue injection of professionalism. However, the event still retains its slightly shambolic approach. Herding cats is easy compared to organising coraclers.
This years regatta was even better. We were blessed with good weather, which makes all the difference to an outdoors event in Britain. consequently, the banks were packed with people enjoying themselves. ICT had taken the precaution of providing a clear approach for coraclers to reach the water thus avoiding the problem of bashing the general public with boats or paddles. Why didn't we think of it before?
Away from the river there was a range of traditional games such as a coconut shy, hook a duck and other fairground favourites. You could also have a go on a kiddies pool if you passed the age test (and wore a life jacket!). There were plenty of stalls to look at and experts giving advice on all sorts of things. What do you need to know about composting?
We had been worried about replacing Gerwyn as the commentator. After all, who else could waffle for Britain in quite the same way. Fortunately, his daughter Mary proved equal to the challenge. Perhaps there's something in this genetics business after all. as usual, there was a variety of craft on show including the traditional Ironbridge style made at the
Green Wood centre over the weekend and having their maiden voyages at the regatta. We must also mention Mike Twitchen's vessel made from a plastic barrel cut lengthways and joined by a board. Is it a coracle? Discuss. It'll be a formidable entry in next year's wacky coracle race.
So a good time was had by all. There were enough people falling in to amuse the spectators, the racing was fierce and we even got a score in the polo. Not to long to go before the 2023 regatta.
24 July 2024
If you've been following our news, you will know that a new project has started this year with the aim of preserving the craft of coracles and coraclemaking, rated as endangered on the Heritage Crafts Association's Red List, for future generations to enjoy.
24 July 2024
We're looking for volunteers to help with the Five Miles From Home challenge. This may be familiar to you if you read the item in the 2023 Journal from member Gary Fruland, who took part in this international event last summer.
24 July 2024
The Society is sad to share the news of the passing of former committee member, Brian Pearce, aged 92.
24 July 2024
Ironbridge style coracle for sale. Well used but in good condition and watertight. Originally built in 1996, has been re-covered many times. Can be put straight on to the water as is, but may benefit from some light repair/restoration. Offers in region of £200 considered, buyer collects from Cheshire
Please contact Euan Raffel for further information
Our event is all about meeting up with like minded people and paddling around a bit. Everyone is welcome to join us from beginners to experts. We are all about getting people on the water and enjoying these historic craft.
The Carmarthen River Festival is back on Saturday 17th August from 3pm. (Rescheduled from July due to river conditions)
There'll be the ever popular Raft Race, Coracle Races, Rowing Race, Duck Race and FREE Canoe, Kayak & Coracle Taster Sessions.
River demonstrations with plenty of dryside entertainment, cookery demos, FREE funfair rides, children's coracle pool, climbing wall and plenty of stalls selling food, refreshments and ice cream.
Annual coracle regatta and races, plus raft race. Licensed bar and BBQ. Part of Cilgerran Festive Week
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