SIR Steve Redgrave welcomed hundreds of revellers to Marlow for the town's fifth annual regatta and festival on Saturday, June 11.

Bright sunshine ensured a party atmosphere as rowing lovers from far afield flocked to the banks of the Thames for the event.

Sir Steve, honorary president of the Marlow Town Regatta and Festival committee, opened the event on Saturday morning.

He said: "I have come with my family and I am really enjoying the day. I watched some of the races and it is something I look forward to."

He added that he was resisting the temptation to get back in the water.

"I'm busier than ever with the 2012 bid which we are waiting on the result of, and I'm really enjoying my work with the BBC."

Rowers from nearby clubs competed in a host of races to the sound of generous applause for the chance to walk away with one of a selection of trophies.

Outside the rowing enclosure there were plenty of stalls in Higginson Park to keep people entertained. A huge fun fair opened every evening over the weekend to keep the party going late into the night.

Roger Wilson, Marlow Town Mayor, said: "It looks like we got a big crowd and hopefully they had a wonderful day. The girls have all dressed up and it is a chance for people to enjoy themselves."

From midday, Cllr Wilson was joined by local dignitaries for the Marlow town mayor's annual reception in Court Garden.

Among the guests was new Wycombe mayor Liaquat Ali.

He said: "I am delighted to be here. I have never been to the regatta before and I am finding it really interesting. Congratulations have to go to the organisers for such a splendid day."

The Marlow Sports Personality of the Year was accepted by Gwyn Stone, chairman of Marlow Rugby Club, on behalf of their captain Jaksa Lovreta.

Mr Lovreta, 27, is also captain of the Croatian national team and is in his native country for the close season. Mr Stone said the award was well deserved.

He added: "Jaksa is not only a great rugby player, he has also given lots outside his personal career. He has been coaching at the local schools and the children have all really taken to him."

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