West Bay - Dorset
Annual Events in the West Bay Area
June
Vintage Rally
Organised by the West Dorset Vintage Tractor and Stationary Engine Club
The rally is held to show engines and tractors driven by various forms of power, both in
miniature and full size. Numerous market stalls are also available to keep enthusiasts
interested. Formed in 1976, the rally has been held in West Bay since 1996.
July
Raft Race
Organised by the Royal National Lifeboat Institute
Participants build (beforehand) a 'floating vessel' (raft) and row it a few hundred yards up the
River Brit before returning to the lake by the harbour sluice gates. The idea is to avoid
sinking, capsizing, falling in, etc. The rafts and participants are usually 'dressed up'.
August
Trawler Parade and Sea Rescue Demonstration
Organised by the Royal National Lifeboat Institute and H. M. Coastguard
Fishing boats and pleasure craft are dressed in bunting, etc. The local R.N.L.I. Lifeboat
(Weymouth or Lyme Regis) perform a mock sea rescue off East Beach in conjunction with Portland's
H.M. Coastguard Rescue Helicopter and West Bay's H.M. Coastguard Rescue Service Team.
Carnival Torchlight Procession
Organised by Bridport Carnival
Held on the last evening of the Bridport Carnival and signifying the end of the
event. Participants can purchase a torch and join the evening procession from South Street,
Bridport to East Beach, West Bay. The event concludes with a spectacular firework display on the beach.
Melplash Show
Organised by the Melplash Agricultural Society
The Melplash Show began from a wager between two farmers at the Half Moon Inn in
Melplash. They placed a £5 bet on whose men could plough better. From this initial
event, the Melplash Agricultural Society was formed in 1847. Ultimately the show became too
large to be held in Melplash and in around 1930 it was transferred to West Bay. The show is
usually held on the last Thursday in August.
The aim is to support local farming with various displays from Sheepdogs to Falconry, while marquees
house local businesses promoting their produce.
December
West Bay Wallow
Organised by CLIC Sargent (Children's cancer charity)
Held each year at midday on Boxing Day. Participants, many in fancy dress,
swim about 200 yards out from East Beach to a marker and back again for charity.