AFTER months of hard work and planning, Winsford Salt Fair 2014 has arrived.

This year’s celebration of the town’s proud industrial heritage will have a special focus on the centenary of the First World War.

Nationally-significant art projects and commemorative river cruises will feature alongside a world-record sailing attempt, moving Great War exhibitions and a four-day fun fair.

The third annual festivities will reach their peak on Sunday, when the first ever Salt Fair Regatta takes place.

A huge fleet of narrow boats of all shapes and sizes will start arriving for the event at the Red Lion on Friday, September 19 at 2pm, marking the end of a ceremonial ‘Poppy Cruise’ along the River Weaver.

Each boat will carry a poppy wreath to the town, which will be placed within a vast poppy mural laid out on Hill Street Bank by artist, Derek Johnson.

Brainchild of the Poppy Cruise, the YMCA’s Nigel Hughes, said: “It’s been a privilege to be part of such a great community initiative and one that I hope will demonstrate that Winsford is a worthwhile destination for recreational boaters, no matter what size their craft is.”

As well as showcasing the scenic Flashes, Salt Fair 2014 boasts dozens of events across town, including a large exhibition by The Royal British Legion.

A scale replica Zeppelin and Mark 1 tank, fashion show, live entertainment, On the Home Front nostalgia evening, stalls and a Flashes island festival with beer provided by the winner of Britain’s favourite local contest, The Old Star.

Salt Fair organising committee member, Steve Smith, added:The historic aspect to the event is the key ingredient. It’s important people learn about what their ancestors have done; particularly the importance of the salt industry.

“One of the main ways of distributing salt from Winsford around the country was by water from the River Weaver, so it’s very fitting that we will hold the Regatta to celebrate that and also commemorate those who died in the Great War.”