DAMSELS in distress were rescued in a weekend of rowing and canoeing.

Hundreds of people turned out for the Manningtree Paddle and Oar Festival on Saturday and Sunday, which was run for the second successive year.

Organisers have labelled the event a success and hope to run it again at the Stour Sailing Club next year.

Mal Bezant, commodore at the club, said: “It was brilliant weather all weekend.

“We had events like blind rowing which was fun.

“It was definitely interesting seeing them go round in circles.

“And we also had damsels in distress being rescued which was great.

“We obviously didn’t put them in any danger. They were in a boat out on the water and someone had to go out an get them.

“Really it was great fun all weekend.

“We also had skiffs from all over taking part in races including Walton, Holbrook and the Thames Rowing Club too.

“They all rowed down to Wrabness on the Saturday which took them around two hours to complete.”

Jazz music, drinks and a barbecue was also enjoyed on the Saturday night before races were held on the Sunday.

The club is now getting ready to hold the annual Manningtree Regatta in August.

“It takes a lot of work to prepare for the weekend so we are getting ready now,” added Mr Bezant.

“Hopefully the weather will be just as good.”