Regatta 2011
On behalf of the Town, a warm welcome to our 167th Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta.
- In 1822 a group of people organised an event that included sailing races, six oared race, a military band playing at the Castle, and an evening ball attended by 122 people.
- In 1834, local inhabitants gathered together to form the first Port of Dartmouth Regatta Committee.
- In 1856, following the visit of HM Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, the Regatta was bestowed the title of "Royal", and ever since has been under
the patronage of a member of the Royal Family. - The Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta is the prime Regatta following Cowes. Its unique history of being organised and run by volunteers has continued over the years, and for 2011, I am most happy to welcome Hilary Bastone as its Chairman.
- Whilst having such an illustrious history, todays modern Regatta illustrates modern technology, boasting air displays and other public services at their best.
- Our proclamation in opening the Regatta asks that everyone taking part either as competitors, traders, visitor, resident, young and old, share this beautiful venue to its utmost.
The wonderful support from the armed services is greatly appreciated and I pay a special welcome to the Captain and Crew of our guard ship H M S Severn.
Enjoy Regatta, enjoy Dartmouth and please visit us again.
Cllr Paul Allen, Town Mayor.
At the Regatta opening ceremony in the Royal Avenue Gardens on Wednesday 24th August 2011, the official proclamation was read by Deputy Mayor Cllr Dave Cawley.
The Regatta Proclamation
Know all men in general and the townspeople of Clifton-Dartmouth-Hardness that Cllr Paul Allen
Mayor of the said Town in exercise of the Ancient privilege of Fair conferred by Charter on this Town doth now proclaim that from this hour until midnight on Saturday next there shall be holden within the confines of this Town a Fair wherein on the booths and stalls shall be displayed and sold all manner of foodstuffs for 
the old and young.
Likewise in the established shops and places of business there shall be displayed and sold foodstuffs and beverages of all descriptions as well as raiment and footwear to the end and intent that all shall be freely sold and freely bought at free market prices in a goodly spirit for the enhancement and good fellowship and cheer during the holding of this Fair.
In token whereof the said Mayor enjoineth all to eat drink and be merry and to spend freely.
And notice is given that during the said Fair there shall be holden on the waters of Dartmouth a Regatta.
For which purpose and subject to the observance of all laws and orders the said Mayor doth nominate Hilary Bastone of this Town as Chairman of the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta Committee to be with the assistance and cooperation of the said Regatta Committee responsible for the successful and enjoyable conduct of the Regatta which has from ages past been associated with the same. 
In testimony whereof the said Hilary Bastone is now invested with the badge of the Silver Oar.
This being the emblem of the Water Bailiwick of Dartmouth, the property of the Royal Duchy of Cornwall.
GOD SAVE THE QUEEN
