Every year, Northampton IWA organise a boat
gathering which is normally held on the River Nene at Becket's
Park in the heart of Northampton.
The event, which is always held over the
first Bank Holiday in May each year, is not open to the general
public but visiting boaters are welcomed as long as they fill
out a booking form and pay an appropriate entrance fee.
The boat gathering, which is the main fund
raiser for the Branch, usually attracts upwards of 50 boats
creating a colourful scene along the riverside between South
Bridge & Avon.
A weekend or so before the event in April,
the Branch organises a clean-up on the Westbridge Arm aided by
an army of volunteers and the Environment Agency who provide a
lorry with a grab arm to carry away the rubbish.
During the day over the weekend lots of
events are organised including a boat handling competition, town
treasure hunt, quiz and a challenge cruise for boats navigating
up the Westbridge Arm; also an auction, sales table and lots of
special activities for children including a fancy dress
competition.
On Saturday and Sunday evenings' musical
entertainment and a raffle are laid on in the main marquee tent
while real ale buffs can check out the quality of local beers,
usually a selection from Frog Island Brewery, in the adjoining
beer tent. On Sunday evening there is also an award presentation
ceremony for the winners of the various competitions taking
place over the weekend.
If you would like to know more about last
year's (2004) Boat Gathering
click here for a full report and more pictures.