Brixham Trawler ‘Race’ returns — with a twist

A spectacular event which was one of the highlights of Torbay's seasonal calendar is making a welcome return.

But there will be one major change — the Brixham Trawler Race won't be a race, it will be a time challenge to fall in line with safety requirements.

That won't stop 24 of the port's fishing vessels from taking to the seas off the Bay on Saturday as part of a special celebration weekend to raise money for the Fishermen's Mission.

The last trawler event was in 2019 after running safely and successfully for 55 years, raising many thousands of pounds for charities and communities.

The introduction of new maritime regulations that year and the huge amount of work that would be required to meet safety criteria was at the time thought to be  too daunting and time consuming.

But in 2023 a new committee was formed with some former members  included  and they started engaging with the local branch of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency who were supportive about how the event could be  run safely again.

The committee reached an agreement with the MCA about how the event could go ahead this year with a maximum of 12 passengers on board dependent on available deck space.

On-shore activities are also planned, with the Brixham Trawler Agents and Torbay Council allowing the use of the Quay.  Many fishermen, marine tradespeople and members of the the local community have all donated time, machinery, boats and knowledge to get the organising committee to a point where they were able to run the trawler event once more.  Local businesses have also supported the fundraising events with raffle prizes. 

A spokesman said: “A massive thank-you to all these people and to the MCA for their time and effort to help us with this event. The committee are thrilled that so many people are helping to make this event happen and we wouldn’t be where we are today without this help. 

“The event is one not to be missed, from the decked out trawlers' timed parade steaming around the course to when they tie up on the quayside to enjoy a beer and some food.”

Darren Passmore, who owns and skippers the trawler Resolute, said: “It's a tradition that has been going for many years and brings the fishing fleet and families together to celebrate the fishing industry. The funds raised go towards the fishermen’s mission  and other charities. In particular, the Mission is  there to support us when times are hard.”  

Derek Meredith, who owns three fishing boats all operating out of Brixham, said: “I’m glad to see this event come back. It’s a great day getting together with fellow fishermen to enjoy some downtime as life is very hectic down on the fish quay.”

Julian Northway, who owns and operates Kraken Marine Services, grew up in Brixham and never missed a trawler race. 

He said: “It’s nice I’m in a position to give something back to the community and I  love the history of the trawler race. It’s great to be part of it and I'm looking forward to ensuring the safety of the fishermen, passengers and nearby vessels as this year myself and my work boats are providing the event with co-ordinating and safety vessels.”

There are numerous vantage points to see the sea-going spectacle celebrating the historic 'Mother of Fishing' port and those who dedicate their lives to the sea. On shore on the Quayn on Saturday there will be live bands, face painting, Bays Brewery, MJR Catering, a South Devon College promotional stand for the fishing apprenticeships, alongside Lavender Mob selling merchandise. Breakwater Marine are there with the latest technology in engines and Brixham Trawl Makers are there showing how nets are mended..

There will be a £5 entrance fee to the event area. Entry is free to children under 16. 

The weekend starts on Friday, June 20 at 6.30pm with a spit roast at the Berry Head Hotel and musical entertainment from Nick Tilley.  Tickets are £25 a head and are  available from Marilyn Rogers on 01803 855618 or   nicolawhite.brixhamtrawlerevent @gmail.com

On Saturday the event gates are open between 9am and 4pm. The parade starts at about 10.30 with boats out on the line from 10am., 

The  last vessel out will be the one from the Netherlands. The Start/Finish is off Battery Point, Brixham.