ONE of the biggest boating events in the UK takes place in Inverclyde next weekend and organisers are gearing up to give away a boat.

Thousands of people will descend on Inverkip for Scotland’s Boat Show at the Kip Marina to see an amazing array of boats, luxury cars and enjoy entertainment for all family.

The event — which is free — will run on 9, 10 and 11 October and there will be arts and crafts, a food hall showcasing top Scottish produce, helicopter rides, sailing taster sessions, a children’s play area and lots of stalls and stands.

For the first time in the show’s history visitors will also get the chance to win a £3,500 vessel thanks to one of the UK’s leading manufacturers.

Gavin McDonagh, Kip Marina managing director, said: “We will be continuing the theme of helping to introduce people to boating with Royal Yachting Association taster sessions and Hartley Boats are giving away a £3,500 boat at the end of the show — it’s free to enter for everyone who visits their stand.

“There will be boats from £500 upwards together with all the larger vessels, Seatrek rib rides under the RYA Active Marina Programme and the really adventurous types can go up in the air in a helicopter.” Luxury motors, such as the stunning £260,000 Rolls Royce Wraith, pictured, will be on display at the show courtesy of Edinburgh-based Leven Car Company.

David Russell, the firm’s marketing manager, said: “We’re really pleased to be part of the show this year and looking forward to what will be another great weekend.” The boat show will also welcome a brand new Scottish food and drink pavilion which will be packed with artisan producers showing off their goods in a street market-style setting alongside a live demonstration kitchen and stage.

Visitors can also enjoy flyboarding demonstrations, have a look at cars supplied by Porsche and enjoy live music throughout the weekend.

Around 14,000 people flocked to Inverkip for the boat show 12 months ago and officials are expecting another huge turnout to enjoy the biggest line-up of events and activities to date.

Kevin Blamire, the marina’s marketing manager and boat show organiser, said: “There are some significant new features for this year, including the food and drink pavilion.

“There will also be jetski displays for the first time, which will be spectacular, and several new exhibitors from the boat and leisure side.

“The show will have something for everyone.

“Visitors and exhibitors come from all over the UK.

“It’s the biggest event of its kind in Scotland and the third biggest in the UK.” Admission is free and car parking costs £5 per vehicle.

For more information visit www.scotlandsboatshow.co.uk or call 521485.