VOLUNTEER fund-raisers from Minehead Lifeboat Station are gearing up for a packed weekend of fun in Watchet to celebrate this year’s Trafalgar Day.

The two-day event will commemorate Nelson’s 1805 naval victory over the combined French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Visitors are invited to attend Watchet’s historic harbour where the programme starts at 9.30 am on Saturday, October 21, with a sea scouts demonstration, followed by Watchet’s Town Crier at 10 am.

Children’s treasure hunts and stalls will be held throughout the Saturday and Sunday, and harbour boat trips will take place between 9.30 am and 12.30 pm on the Saturday and 10 am to 1 pm on the Sunday, weather permitting.

Live music starts on the Esplanade from 2 pm, and culminates with Rough Justice playing in the Esplanade Club in the evening.

The fun continues on the Sunday with the final street fair of the year from 10 am, and activities for young and old alike.

Live music continues throughout the day with performances from sea shanty singers, and the Quay Tones at 2 pm.

Trivia fans should enjoy a Trafalgar Quiz in the Bell Inn at 3 pm, and a seafarer’s service will be held on the Esplanade.

Fund-raiser Hilary Hawkins said: “We really have pulled out all the stops with this year’s Trafalgar Day celebrations and hope to see the quayside packed.”

Alongside the fun activities, Minehead RNLI will be running a ‘Lifejacket Clinic’ between 11 am and 3 pm on both days.

Boathouse manager and long-serving RNLI crew member Andrew Escott said: “A lifejacket is your greatest friend at sea, but only if fitted and worn correctly.

“Come down to get yours checked by the experts free of charge.”