February 9, 2001 10:23: COMMUNITY leaders are asking the public to dig deep to help pay for Marlow's new regatta, expected to cost in the region of £40,000.

Organisers behind the Marlow Town Regatta and Festival announced their plea to a packed public meeting, calling on residents and businesses alike to club together.

Sir Steve Redgrave joined more than 200 people eager to hear for the first time what to expect from Marlow Regatta's replacement event at Tuesday's meeting in Liston Hall, Marlow.

The event looks set to be very similar to Marlow Regatta, with veteran and junior rowing events, enclosures for the public and subscribers, Traylen's Funfair, and fireworks.

However, visitors will now see dragon boat racing instead of elite rowing crews.

The meeting, the first of its kind, was described as a huge success with 65 new subscribers signing up. The group now has £5,000 in the bank.

Sir Steve, who is joint president of the June 16 event along with his wife Lady Ann Redgrave, said: "With the good will of the town we will make this work.

"We need to get across the message to all residents and young people that it is a town regatta for everybody, there will be something to suit everyone."

As well as traditional rowing for veterans and juniors, revellers can also expect dragon boat racing made-up of local pub teams, catamaran canoes, and skiffs.

James Campbell, chairman of the management committee and a Marlow town councillor, said: "The meeting was very, very successful.

"There was a very good atmosphere and I did not hear any complaints.

"The fact that we got 65 subscribers and many other application forms taken away is great news."

No corporate sponsors have officially signed up to the project but at least two local businesses have expressed an interest.

Cllr Campbell added: "Everything is ready to go. We just need the support of the people of Marlow."

To sign-up as a subscriber or donate money, call Cllr Campbell on (01628) 485161 or Alan Coster on (01628) 482045.