Final preparations are being made as over 160 yachts are confirmed for the Bell Lawrie Scottish Series, which begins on the 27 May 2004.

Racing starts from both Gourock and Bangor, with overnight feeder races which finish in Tarbert. Yachts will divide into three separate fleets and sail up to two races per day, with the regatta finishing on 1 June 2004.

Competition is expected to be fierce in all classes, with last year’s overall series champions, local Tarbert sailors, Ruairidh & Graeme Scott set to defend their overall championship trophy against rivals from as far afield as Galway, Southampton and the Isle of Man.

Bars and restaurants look set to be very busy, with an estimated 25,000 pints of beer being drunk and 5,000 oysters consumed by thirsty and hungry crews.