A RE-LAUNCH party is being held on Saturday (June 7) for the rejuvenated Watchet Marina, which was taken over last autumn by new owners.

All berth holders and visiting customers are being invited to decorate their boats and join in the festivities from 6 pm.

Western Marinas bought the business in September, 2024, from the administrators of the Marine and Property Group, which had run it for three troubled years.

The new owners quickly set about dredging mud which had built up over the years, repairing the marina gate to again allow water to be retained, and putting in place services such as a boat lift.

Now, diesel is again being sold for boats during office opening hours with a new tank installed and a licence granted, while Western Marinas has also started a recruitment drive for seasonal staff.

A spokesperson said: “This is another step forward in the rehabilitation of Watchet Marina.

“Boat owners have been waiting a long time to be able to have their boats lifted out of the water, but with our efforts clearing the hard standing area over the last few weeks has meant this could now happen.

“We had Nick Sampson Cranes on site to lift out six of our berth holder’s boats.

“They have come out of water to have some pre-season maintenance done before going back in the water in a few weeks’ time ready for some summer sailing.

“Since taking over Watchet Marina last year, we have made some great strides, and while there is still lots more to do, we think it is the perfect moment to pause and raise a glass to how far we have come.”

The spokesperson said the celebrations would include an evening of food, drinks, entertainment, ‘and great company as we mark this exciting new chapter for the marina’.