THE first ever Windermere Boat Show will take place next month with a range of sail and power boats on display - from sports vessels to 40-foot motor cruisers.

Free to attend, the new three-day event has been organised by Shepherds Marine and Windermere Marina Village in what is hoped to be the first of a series of annual boat shows on the lake.

It is aimed at people who are new to boating, as well as those who are more experienced and want to chat informally to boating experts about the latest trends and innovations.

Jason Dearden, managing director at Shepherds Marine and Windermere Marina Village, said: “This will be the first ever boat show on England’s largest natural lake. There is a thriving boating community here in Cumbria and this will be a great opportunity to look at a selection of both sail and power boats. It's also a chance for visitors to chat to our friendly boating experts and other like-minded people, and to take a tour of Northern England's largest inland marina."

The new Windermere Boat Show will run 10am to 6pm, March 20-22.

Free parking is available on site.

Enthusiasm is also continuing to grow for the now annual Windermere Sailing Regatta Series, with the next event of the 2015 season due to get underway on April 25.

Future regatta dates are May 30, June 20, July 25, August 15 and September 26.