A colourful array of more than 60 working bats, including Old Gaffers, and classic yachts will be sailing along the rivers either side of the Shotley peninsula this weekend.

A Parade of Sail from Ipswich Wet Dock to Levington took place Friday afternoon ahead of for two days of cruising and racing in the Orwell, Stour and out to sea, dependent on weather conditions.

The fleet gathered at Associated British Port's (ABP) Ipswich Beacon Marina to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of the Old Gaffers Association (OGA).

The association was set up in 1963 to preserve traditional gaff-rigged boats - which are now being built again.

A civic reception outside of Old Customs House addressed by the Mayor of Ipswich Lynn Mortimer welcomed the return of 15 OGA boats completing a circumnavigation of the UK.

Spectators can watch this spectacle from various vantage points along the River Orwell, including the Butt & Oyster at Pin Mill, and the Shipwreck at Shotley marina.

The largest boat on display will be Lilian - thought to be the oldest surviving diesel gentleman's yacht worldwide.

A restored Essex smack called Pioneer and built in 1864, and Fanny of Cowes built in 1872 and still racing under her original fishing no. CS12 will be among the oldest vessels.

View from Shipwreck