THE signs are good for a hot British summer and plans are now well underway for the 42nd Mersea Week.

This week of sailing events for yachts and dinghies, which takes place from August 16-21, is organised and hosted by the West Mersea Yacht Club and Dabchicks Sailing Club.

There is always a good turnout of traditional vessels – fishing smacks, fishermen’s open boats and classic yachts –while ashore there is a real party atmosphere and everyone is made very welcome.

The sheltered waters of the River Blackwater provide perfect conditions and space to run daily races and there is a full programme of social events and shore-side activities.

One of the traditions that have evolved over the years is the dinghies-only Round the Island Race which sees boats having to be physically lifted over the causeway on to the Island, known as the Strood, for the coveted Coconut Trophy, which this year takes place on Tuesday, August 18.

This is a tremendous spectator event for families and friends, even if they get very wet helping with the crossing.

The week’s events start on August 15 when competitors can collect their race packs from the WMYC and there is a Welcome party at the DSC.

The Dabchicks SC Regatta is held on August 16, with the West Mersea YC Regatta on August 21.

There is live music every day, food available and good beer.

Programmes with full details should be available in June.

Mersea Week is followed o August 22 by the West Mersea Town Regatta.

The day starts with dinghy and cruiser racing in the morning and then the water sport events get under way in the afternoon, with a variety of rowing and other races started from the Thames Barge Kitty, which can be viewed from Mersea Hard.

After the prize-giving a grand firework display then rounds off the event at dusk. See www.merseaweek.org or www.mersearegatta.org for more information.