THE first South West Dorset schools regatta took place at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

A total of 42 children from Wey Valley, All Saints, Sir John Colfox, Thomas Hardye's, Budmouth Technology College and Royal Manor Arts College competed in the event yesterday putting into practice what they had learnt in the sailing clubs now established in Weymouth and Portland secondary schools.

Chief instructor and community sports coach at Sail Laser, Matt Bridge said: "It was the first Dorset schools regatta and we're going to make it an annual event.

"It's being sponsored by the Chesil Trust and there will be a Pico fleet and a Laser fleet.

"All the children got T-shirts, and there were bronze, silver and gold medals."

  • For more details see tomorrow's Afloat page.