The weekend began with an apocalyptic weather forecast (which was unsurprisingly wrong), and ended with beautiful sunshine on Breakwater Beach.
On Saturday, the festival was officially opened by one of our favourite people – Mary Thomson from Pride in Brixham. Our England’s Seafood Coast Cooking Demonstrations showcased the best of Brixham fish live on-stage. Crowds enjoyed tasting Mitch Tonk’s (Rockfish Brixham) crab recipe, Mussels a’la Quayside Hotel Brixham and poached mackerel prepared by local legend, Ron Campion of Ron Campion Furnishers. Live Music entertained crowds throughout light showers and 3BF (Three Bags Full) rocked the BrixFest main stage in one of their last ever public appearances together. Lots of Bays Brewery beer and cider was enjoyed by all, complimenting Brixham Edge Burgers and Say Cheese raclette cheese.
On Sunday teams battled it out alongside the Breakwater to be crowned BrixFest 2018 Dragonboat Champions. The current course record holders, Buoys ‘n Belles, bowed out in 6th and our Headline Sponsors Brixham Cottages Ltd claimed the fastest time of the day – but it wasn’t enough to knock The Manor Pub from taking the trophy and being named champions! Thanks to Torbay Sea School for their support as ever.
On Sunday evening our Firework Display supported by Brixham Town Council was literally the best we’ve never seen – with fog and smoke combining to everyone’s amusement (okay, maybe not everyone). The display had been postponed in the interest of public safety – so we really thank you for sticking with us. We’ll be back next year with an even more spectacular display which you’ll actually be able to see.
Monday’s annual Kid’s Day bought with it a change in weather – stunning sunshine and amazing blue skies blessed Brixham’s Breakwater Beach. Aquatic Jetpacks Ltd flew high above the water and put on an awesome show for spectators. Thanks to Brixham Gig Club for providing our safety boat. Free kids activities were enjoyed by thousands of you, and our Charity Stalls under The Old Fish Market were equally busy.
Tuesday’s Crabbing Competition was entered by over 75 budding crabbers, with Lucy taking the £50 cash prize home with a crab weighing in at 187 grams. A monster!
Wednesday’s Vintage Car Rally forced the rain to clear, as many vintage and classic cars exhibited to the crowds.
BrixFest 2018 was in many ways, the most challenging festival yet for the committee – who have 7 years of events to compare it with. However, I think we can all agree it was one of the most enjoyable. The sense of community in Brixham once again shone – and the towns people and visitors came out in their droves to enjoy the free family activities on offer.
We’d like to say a HUGE thank you to all of our sponsors – including Brixham Chamber of Commerce – , local businesses who support us, local authorities – in particular the Harbour Authority – for their backing and assistance year after year. And of course – thanks goes to the people who turn out year after year to enjoy BrixFest.
BrixFest 2019 will be held Saturday 25th – Wednesday 29th May – put the dates in your diary, and we’ll see you there!
Harry Bower
Chairman, BrixFest