Goring and Streatley regatta 2015 proves huge success

Dongolas part of riverside entertainment

Dongolas took to the water as part of the Goring and Streatley regatta, which saw 35 crews competing to win several gleaming cups, in fine weather.

The dongolas provided "plenty of action and much hilarity," said Brian Barnes, a spokesman for the recent (July 25) regatta who said the regatta's more serious competition provided:

"Some very hot action during the racing on the river, especially in the single sculls, where several very close races provided excellent entertainment for the audience."

Meanwhile visitors took full advantage of a relaxing day out on the riverbank, watching the entertaining racing, regaled by 'pirates and scallywags' who romped across the regatta site in costume and singing sea shanties.

"Those people who had reserved gazebos on the riverbank certainly seemed to be enjoying themselves," said Mr Barnes.

Ray Pryor and his birds of prey proved "as popular as ever," and other attractions includede: racing ferrets, dog agility, a parade of classic cars, live music, fun fair and beer tent.

A free bus service to the village proved popular," and "will probably warrant two buses next year!" said Mr Barnes, with a huge "thank you" to local families and organisations, voluntary race officials and commentators, for supporting "one of our most successful regattas in recent years."

A drive to build a new boat house near Beale Park, between the villages of Goring & Streatley and Lower Basildon, is underway, to provide a base for local people to take up rowing.

"We hope to be building the foundations of the boat house later this year with main construction taking place in early spring 2016," said Mr Barnes, adding:

We are working with the Yattendon Estate who are very supportive and with local and national organisations such as Sport England, to bring this dream to fruition."