A SPECTACULAR showcase of The Solent’s boating community and historic ships will set sail off the Island in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee on August 6 — and it’s not too late to take part. 

Local yacht and sailing clubs are still welcome to join by emailing mail@rys.org.uk as soon as possible. 

All boats, from RIBs to sailing and motor vessels, can register with their own yacht club to be part of the official programme, to be held at Cowes. 

The regatta will feature more than 400 boats, which will be reviewed by VIPs in a motor-past, before racing off Bramble Bank.

The line-up of historic ships will include four Dunkirk ‘Little Ships’, Gipsy Moth IV and Suhaili, and two sail training vessels, moored off The Green at Cowes.

Among the highlights will be the restored Dragon, Bluebottle, presented to The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh as a wedding present by The Island Sailing Club, due to race during Cowes Week.

Up above, there will be the Silver Spitfire air display, by the Spitfire Academy, at Goodwood.

On dry land, there will be music and entertainment at a free concert at Cowes Yacht Haven, with headline acts to be announced. 

Proceeds from the event will support the Wetwheels charity, which provides opportunities for disabled people to access the sea in a safe, stimulating and rewarding way on board the charity’s fully-accessible powerboats.

A committee of sailing organisations, class associations and clubs from across The Solent region is organising the event, immediately following this year’s Cowes Week. 

Hampshire yachtsman, Geoff Holt MBE, founder of the Wetwheels charity and a member of the organising committee, said: “The Solent Platinum Jubilee event is shaping up to be a memorable ‘once in a lifetime’ celebration, bringing The Solent’s sailing and yachting community together to celebrate our Queen’s 70 years on the throne.

“It’s not too late to join in the celebrations — just get in touch, we will be pleased to welcome you.

“Members of the Royal Family continue to give wonderful support to many local yacht clubs and charities on The Solent.

"They have been a common sight at yachting events for decades, so we are delighted to hold this event in honour of Her Majesty.”

Chair of the organising committee, Jonathan Nainby-Luxmoore, said: “This very special day will be packed with fun and action on and offshore for members of The Solent yachting and boating community to enjoy. #

"Register your interest if you haven’t already done so, and please show your support for our chosen charity Wetwheels.”

Donations can be made here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/platinumjubilee