Mooring holders went back to the Eighties with time travel cars, walk-around RoboCop and retro games for Beaulieu River’s annual summer party.
Star attraction time machines from Back to the Future, Night Rider and Ghosbusters entertained the crowd throughout the day. Then guests danced into the evening with tribute band Wild Boys, who got everyone on their feet with a high-energy performance of Eighties anthems and rock classics.
It was the first party to also include a charity duck race, which sent hundreds of rubber ducks bobbing along the Beaulieu River and raised £788 for Blood Cancer UK.
The summer party is a key date in the annual Beaulieu River events calendar, bringing together the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour community to catch up over a cold drink, bite to eat and live music, while enjoying the friendly atmosphere.
Harbour Master Wendy Stowe said: “We’ve had so many lovely messages from our berth and mooring holders to say how much they enjoyed the special day. Thanks to everyone who dressed in Eighties outfits to help celebrate our theme.”
Marine businesses TransEurope Marinas, Parker Adams and Associated Marine Training joined the gathering, along with boatyard contractors Reynolds Marine Interior, Marine Tec and Classic Shipwright Services who showcased their work.
Local community groups included the Countryside Education Trust, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Wild New Forest, Hatchett Herd of Pedigree Dexters, Noble Bee, The New Forest Fruit Company, Beaulieu Estate and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.
Sue and Steve from The Boatyard Bar – who open alongside weekend pop-up restaurants throughout the summer – served special wines to help the celebrations. Smoke & Taco, Chef Jan, Cottage Pizzas and New Forest Fish & Shellfish provided a choice of delicious menu options.
