THE rich history and vibrant culture of the iconic Newquay Harbour was celebrated on Saturday, September 7.

Hundreds of people attended the Newquay Harbour Festival, which included live music, chef’s demos and lots of food and drink was available.

The day started with a Harbour Rockpool Ramble with Mr FT where visitors were able to explore the harbour and find out more about our thriving eco system from the beach.

People wanting to do their bit to help keep the harbour pristine were able to join a beach clean sponsored by Sharp’s Brewery. Adults who participated were rewarded with a free pint of Atlantic Beer from Sharps.

Cooking demos were staged in the Rattler Marquee featuring talented Cornish-based chefs showcasing locally sourced seafood, including Guy Owen from the Great British Menu, Gavin Edney from the Headland Hotel and Adam Banks, SHIO of Asian Street Food.

There was live music throughout the day that included shanties from The Clams, Newquay Rowing Club Singers, and the newly formed Harbour Rats Shanty Band.

An interactive gin flavouring sessions were held in the evening and people were also able to indulge in a wine tasting experience.

Visitors were able to make a withy fish at a free family workshop with City of Lights artists at the harbour. Beach art ‘Pages of the Sea’ flag installation created and designed by City of Lights was also held on the beach.

There was also be an array of street food, seafood and a Sharps Bar available.

The Boathouse teamed up with Newquay BID, Cornwall Shop Small, and Newquay Farmers Market to bring the vibrant event to life.

Amie Bradshaw, the general manager at the Boathouse, said: “Newquay Harbour Festival was an incredible day and even the slightly wet weather didn’t dampen people’s spirits.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Newquay BID, Cornwall Shop Small and Newquay Farmers Market for this years Harbour Festival. It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying themselves and we’re very proud to be part of such a wonderful, community event.” Mark Warren, the manager at Newquay BID, added: “The Newquay Harbour Festival was a great success with everyone enjoying all the that harbour has to offer with music, cooking demos, the market and activities creating a family fun vibe.

“Newquay as a whole was bustling all day with events through the town from the Harbour through to the Killacourt.

“I’m looking forward to working with all the partners involved to grow this event year on year.”

Sarah Curley of Cornwall Shop Small said: “It’s wonderful that our monthly BIG Newquay Market coincided with the return of the Newquay Harbour Festival.

“For this event only we extended the market down to the harbour making it our biggest BIG Newquay Market day yet.”