Bridlington Sailing Coble Festival hailed a success

Clear blue skies and favourable winds made an interesting sail for all the fleet.

The visiting coble Providence arrived from Whitby by sea the previous Tuesday and the foy coble Lilian was brought down from Sunderland on a trailer and launched on the Saturday morning.

Sadly, due to rising transport costs other sailing cobles were unable to attend, fuel costs alone being very prohibitive.

All the cobles set out at 11am on the Saturday and with dipping-lugs hoisted a course was set towards Flamborough Head. Some excellent sailing was achieved before changing tack for a run south.

Sunday proved another great day for sailing and with the wind shifting round, the South Smithic buoy was soon in view.

Providence broke her mast but didn't give up and under motor power kept up with the rest of the fleet.

A steady flow of visitors enjoyed the harbourside stalls and with the traditional shanties and sea songs echoing from the stage, a welcoming atmosphere was enjoyed.

Great interest was shown in the – North Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority stand – which outlined its work on the coast, and the display of traditional fishermen’s ganseys proved very popular. All stall holders reported brisk business and said what a great event it was.

A spokesperson for the event said: “For the first time ever there was an award for the best turned out coble at the festival.

"The perpetual trophy had been generously donated in memory of Steve Emmerson, who died January 2025, by his widow Gill.

"All the cobles looked resplendent in the harbour on Saturday morning being dressed overall with bunting and flags.

“Two independent judges, Chris Wright and John Cole, viewed the cobles and they were rated on a points system covering five categories.

“The wining coble was Free Spirit and skipper/owner Andy Gibson was presented with the award by Gill on the Sunday.

“The festival was a great success and thoughts will soon be channelled towards next year's event.”