HUNDREDS of people watched and cheered as members of the Bridport Barracudas took to the harbour at West Bay for the return of the Delapre Cup.

The original Delapre, which was a handicap race for all age groups, was swum as early as 1905 but ceased to take place around 1983.

The New Delapre, so called because of the obvious changes to the harbour, is swum over a course of approximately 600m and is no longer a handicap race, with organisers restricting it to those aged 13 and under.

The first swimmer home, and winner of the Boys’ Cup, was Joseph Boyer, 13, in a time of 15mins 54secs.

Close on his heels was Nathanael Wormleighton, who is still only 10 and who finished in 15mins 59secs.

The Girls’ Cup went to Maisie Amos, 13, in 16mins 24secs, followed closely by Elena Wood, 12, in 16mins 44secs.

Other very notable times were swum by Georgia Clarke (18mins 14secs), Louis King (19mins 36secs), Alexandra Moorey (20mins 28secs), Nathan Moorey (24mins 43secs). Also taking part was nine-year-old George Amos.

Barracudas thanked the Bridport Swimming Club for allowing them to use the original Delapre Cup, Harbour Master James Radcliffe, and Sophie Dawe for swimming along with the youngsters to provide extra safety.

The action in the water continued with the annual Blackbuoy Cup.