Thousands of people are expected to take part in Swanage Lifeboat Week, which culminates with the Lifeboat Festival and Fair at Prince Albert Gardens next weekend.

The ten-day event, in aid of the town’s RNLI, includes a fun run, sailing and gig races, a build-a-boat contest, angling competition, live music, BBQ and a raft race.

When does it take place?

It started with an open golf competition at The Dorset Golf & Country Club on Friday, and finishes with the Lifeboat Service at Swanage Pier on Sunday, August 16.

When is the festival and fair?

The Swanage Lifeboat Festival and Fair takes place at the town’s Prince Albert Gardens on Saturday, August 15 & Sunday, August 16. There will be live music, a bar and BBQ at the gardens, 6-11pm, on Friday, August 14 as well.

When is the charity duck race?

The popular charity duck race, when up to 2,000 plastic ducks are entered, takes place on Sunday, August 9. The best place to watch the action is by the Mowlem Theatre around 3pm.

Something for the theatre lovers?

Why not head for Prince Albert Gardens at 7pm on Monday, August 10, to watch an outdoor performance of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

When are the sailing events?

Swanage Sailing Club’s junior race is set for Tuesday, August 11, in Swanage Bay between 5.30-7pm. On Thursday, August 13, at 6.30pm, the seniors have their race. There will also be a gig race off Swanage’s main beach on the same day, from 6pm.

When are the running events?

The Lifeboat Fun Run takes place from Prince Albert Gardens at 9am. Register from 8am.

Is there any live music?

There will be live music at Prince Albert Gardens on the evening of Friday, August 14, and Saturday, August 15.

What are the other highlights?

The popular build a boat competition takes place from midday at Prince Albert Gardens on Saturday, August 15, before the main race at the town’s Stone Quay at 4pm. This is followed by a raft race on Swanage Beach.