Mayor's Regatta Reception

Mayor’s Regatta Reception

Held on Regatta Day, which is set between June and September, and is dependent on the tides and the dates in the WEARA Calendar.  WEARA is the West of England Amateur Rowing Association and culminates in an annual Championship each year. 

The Mayor’s Reception is an invitation only event and part of the Mayor’s Civic Calendar although full chains are not worn – we don’t want the valuables falling in the river!

The Mayor will invite selected neighbouring Mayors across North Devon as well as the Chair of Torridge District Council and whoever he/she wants to be there.  Numbers are restricted to around 40/45 for comfort in the VIP marquee on the Quayside. 

The Mayor will meet the dignitaries in the Mayor’s Parlour, to give those travelling a chance to freshen up before heading out to the Marquee.  Smart dress is encouraged, and it is an opportunity for everyone to gather informally for some fun. 

Depending on the time of the first race depends how the Mayor wishes to cater for the guests; sometimes canapés and a lunch, or a light lunch and afternoon tea, or even breakfast with nibbles later on.  The racing is carried out over four hours usually (between tides) and there is some healthy rivalry on the water, but everyone in the Mayor’s Marquee is cheering for Bideford.  The Marquee is situated in a prime spot where guests can see the start but get the full benefit of seeing the winners over the finish line.

Rowing on the River Torridge has been an established part of the town’s history for nearly 130 years but the Regatta itself has been going since the mid-1950’s.  Bideford boasts two rowing Clubs and there is good rivalry and solidarity between the two clubs on Regatta Day. 

We will be gathering at the Town Hall for 9.45am and then over to the marquee where refreshments will be available.

Formal invitations will be sent out nearer the date.