Thousands are expected in Brightlingsea this weekend for the annual Regatta Boat Show and fireworks display.

The 11th annual event takes place at Brightlingsea Sailing Club, the Colne Yacht Club and Morgan Marine in Shipyard Estate on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm.

A fireworks display organised by Brighlingsea Town Council and sponsors will take place at 9.30pm.

The Regatta and Boatshow will feature many new and second-hand boats, marine chandlery stalls, clothing stalls and other associated trade stands such as trailers, covers, rigging and electronics.

There will also be food stalls and live music, plus a beer festival at the Yacht Club and Sailing Club.

Organising committee chairman Rick Morgan, of Morgan Marine, said the annual event is aimed at economically developing the town by showing visitors what it can offer.

“Regatta Day shows what we can do.All the clubs and societies are open to how their wares and to try and get members,” he said.

Many activities will also be free, including boat trips.

The event also coincides with Stocks Funfair being in town.

“We usually get 7,000-800 over the weekend. We get people from Manchester, Birmingham and they see what a lovely place Brightlingsea is. Then they buy a house or a boat here. Everything helps the local economy,” Rick added.