Fishing port's famous trawler event returns

More than 20 fishing vessels will take to the water on Saturday in celebration of one of Britain's "most iconic ports".

Brixham is England's most successful fishing port in terms of the value of catch landed on the quayside, and Torbay Council has recently given the green light for a major port expansion at Oxen Cove.

The Brixham Trawler Event will attempt to revive the heyday of the former popular Trawler Race.

A spokesperson said the day serves to "celebrate the incredible heritage of one of Britain's most iconic fishing ports".

They added: "After everything the industry has faced, this is the event for fishermen to take a well-earned day off and enjoy the celebrations with their family, friends and crew. They deserve it."

Vessels taking part will be dressed in flags and bunting for the occasion, with guests invited on board for a rally around the bay which starts at 10:00 BST.

Organisers have chosen the Fishermen's Mission as their charity, saying it was a fitting tribute to those who worked in one of Britain's most demanding professions.

The festival will also welcome friends from the Netherlands, who are long valued supporters of the event. Maaskant Shipyard is once again providing a boat bell as a trophy.

There will be onshore entertainment throughout the day, with a lineup of solo singers and bands, a fairground ride, face painting and arts and crafts activities for children.

Event secretary Jackie Stockman said the day was about "celebrating our fishing community and the incredible port we are so proud of".

The event, formerly known as the Brixham Trawler Race, had a hiatus after the event in 2019 and returned in 2025 after successfully negotiating with the Maritime Coastguard Agency, albeit with a reduced number of passengers on board the trawlers for the rally.

It will cover one lap of the bay, with boats being handicapped according to their speed and horsepower to make it a fairer contest.

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