Island Life Magazine Ltd June/July 2012 | Page 76

ON THE WATER Gaffers galore! The Queen’s Golden Jubilee festivities began in earnest in the sunshine of Yarmouth as thousands gathered for the annual Old Gaffers’ Festival. Organisers used the popular event as a prelude to the Queen’s 60 glorious years’ celebrations, and even called on HRH lookalike Mary Reynolds to open proceedings. With the backdrop of the magnificent Gaffers yachts in the harbour and beyond, the Festival proved another huge success. Radio One DJ Rob Da Bank was among those who entertained the crowds, along with Abba, Rod Stewart and Queen tribute acts. There was also fun galore in Yarmouth Square throughout the three days of the Festival, from Morris Dancers to Steel Bands; a human juke box to Short Drag Roger singing shanties and sea songs, and the Spidermen of the Bournemouth Comedy Marching Band dishing up their unique brand of entertainment. Numerous stalls, packed bars and a Flower Festival in St James’ Church helped make it a weekend to remember. Debbie Cotton and Rob Da Bank HRH lookalike Mary Reynolds with High Sheriff Nick Hayward 76 www.visitislandlife.com On the m arch! Messing about on the water