MORE than 150 guests and 42 visiting boats attended an official relaunch celebration for Watchet Marina.

The event marked a milestone in the ongoing rehabilitation of the marina, which Western Marinas group bought last September.

People from the Watchet community who had been instrumental in the success to date were also invited to the occasion.

Western Marinas, which has received significant support from funding partners Harwood Private Capital and Trevally Capital, wanted to highlight both the marina’s physical transformation and the strong community support which has been key to its success.

Chairman Andrew Cornish said: “This re-launch was more than just a celebration, it was a thank you to everybody who has helped bring Watchet Marina back to life.

“The turnout and enthusiasm from boaters and the local community alike has been incredibly encouraging as we continue to invest in the marina’s future.”

The visiting boats added to the lively atmosphere in the harbour, reflecting Watchet’s returning appeal as a vibrant boating destination on the Somerset coast now a dredging campaign has been completed, and the marina gate is in operation again.

Many attendees praised the marina improvements and shared their excitement about its future potential.

One visitor from Cardiff commenting on progress, said: “Western Marinas have done the impossible.”

Western Marinas reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with local partners as the next phases of development unfold.

One business owner reflecting on the weekend, with the town’s visitor centre seeing an influx of boat owners who had never before been to Watchet, said: “There definitely seemed to be lots of people about and a nice little buzz in the town.”

Mr Cornish said Western Marinas was passionate about ensuring the marina’s progress and the return of visiting boats to Watchet had a positive and lasting impact on local businesses and tourism across the town.