THE first Southampton sailing week has been heralded as a roaring success, with more than 1,000 people getting out on the water.

In an event organised to celebrate the importance and heritage of Southampton Water, the inaugural week saw a further 5,000 people taking part in various activities.

From 100 boats heading down the River Itchen for the parade of sail to 150 school children receiving the opportunity to try dinghy sailing, organisers Rees Leisure have praised the event and its impact on the city.

Organiser Chris Rees, of the same company which helped bring the full marathon to the city for the first time in 33 years, said he is looking forward to running the week again next year.

He said: “The whole reason we launched Southampton sailing week was to celebrate and allow people from all walks of life to experience the thrill of the sport.

“Seeing smiles on the faces of those who raced with us really was rewarding.

“The reception to this year’s Southampton sailing week has been great so we’re very keen to make it a permanent fixture in the sailing calendar.

“Southampton really is at the epicentre of sailing so it’s only right that the city should have a regular celebration of the sport.”

The week ran between May 24 and 29, with more than 50 activities taking place across Southampton and parts of the New Forest.

Southampton City Council cabinet member for culture, leisure and communities, Cllr Satvir Kaur, also called the week a fantastic success.

Cllr Kaur said: “It was great to see all ages, backgrounds, businesses and schools, coming together to collectively celebrate Southampton’s maritime history and identity.

“Thousands of people took part, and for many of them, this would have been their first experience taking to the water.

“I hope this will inspire many more to get involved and take advantage of the amazing facilities that our great city has to offer.”

Hosting some of the events was MDL Marinas in Ocean Village, Shamrock Quays and Hythe.

Adrien Burnand, head of marketing at MDL Marinas said: “It was fantastic to see our Solent marinas buzzing with activity, both on the water and land, celebrating the spirit of sailing.

“Festivals like this help to inspire the next generation of sailors and we are committed to showcasing the very best of sport on the water.”