Thousands of mainly family groups were basking in the blistering sunshine along Wexford’s quays today and taking in the delights of the first day of the 8th annual Wexford Maritime Festival which is a fundraising event for the RNLI.

David Maguire of the organising committee was “delighted with the first day of the festival” and in his view “the best ever”, while seasoned exhibitors said they “never saw crowds like it with no lull in the numbers enjoying the festival throughout the day.”

And, of course, it was all down to the weather with hardly a ripple across Wexford Harbour. For many, the highlight was the Irish Coast Rescue 117 Helicopter presenting a rescue scenario with the co-operation of Wexford RNLI Lifeboat and the Civil Defence.

Participants included volunteers from rescue services including RNLI Lifeboats, Irish Air Corps, HSE Ambulance Service, Civil defence, Irish Coast Guard, the Gardaí Underwater Unit, Wexford Fire Service, Slaney Search and Rescue, Wexford Harbour Boat and Tennis Club, Slaney Purple Paddlers (Dragon Boats) and Scouts.

The Model Village features the largest collection of model boats and aircraft with many exhibitions, including Rosslare Maritime Enthusiasts display featuring photographs and models of ships belonging to the Wexford Steamship Company (J.J. Stafford & Sons) and Harry Wilson & Sons Company, who worked the quays at Wexford over many generations in thy heyday of the ancient Wexford port.

The festival has children’s activities and family fun, advice clinics, and, of course, an exciting food village featuring tasty festival local produce, and a variety of entertainment including the Sea Shanty Group and traditional music.

Day Two of the Maritime Festival is expected to draw more big crowds on Sunday and Wexford Quays will be bustling from 11 am till 6 pm. Weather for tomorrow is favourable with peak temperatures of 19 degress celsius forecast for the mid-afternoon.