A THROWBACK to days gone by which will rekindle memories of great sailing sights will happen on the Thames later this month.

The Gravesend Reach to Mouse Channel Thames Sailing Barge match on Saturday, 14 August will feature nine sailing barges.

Participating vessels are expected to assemble in Gravesend Reach, then proceed outward to the starting line in Lower Hope Reach at Mucking No. 3 Buoy, with the competitors to start in groups between 8 and 8.30am.

The race will then proceed outward to the North Oaze Buoy, where they will turn about and return to Gravesend for the finish.

The intended route may be shortened or otherwise modified on the day, according to the prevailing weather conditions.

The following sailing barges taking part are expected to be Cambria, Lady Daphne, Niagara, Ironsides, Repertor, Edith May, Adieu, Blue Mermaid and Marjorie.