THE Old Leigh Regatta is making a long-awaited return this weekend following a five year hiatus – including a surprise appearance from star Denise van Outen.

The all singing, all dancing event with a host of performances alongside sailing races will take over Leigh’s old town throughout the weekend.

Chairman of the regatta, Marcus Dean, announced yesterday that actress and singer Denise van Outen, from Basildon, will take to the main stage at 6pm on Saturday for a surprise performance.

Popular - the event attracts huge crowdsPopular - the event attracts huge crowds (Image: Marcus Dean)

The event, which dates back to the 1880s, will take place between 11am and 7pm on both days.

Alongside sailing races from Leigh beach, there will be a range of entertainment including music and other performances taking place on the main stage at Victoria Wharf car park.

Mr Dean called the Regatta a “really special community event” and said he wanted to help keep events such as this alive for residents.

Sailing fun - Races will be held off Leigh beachSailing fun - Races will be held off Leigh beach (Image: Marcus Dean)

He said: “I was motivated because I personally feel community events like this are lesser and lesser. If no one else did it, it could die a death.

“It’s about a community getting together and celebrating its relationship with the River Thames.

Musical fun - Old Leigh RegattaMusical fun - Old Leigh Regatta (Image: Marcus Dean)

“It’s a huge event and a great thing for all involved. It’s about mixing tradition with the new.

“I thought I could do it, so I did. I’ve got a really good team behind me who have all worked very hard.

“Come with open expectations, come with an open mind, expect to see things that you recognise and do not. I think some things are going to be very different and that is for the best.”

Grub’s up - Eating competitions will returnGrub’s up - Eating competitions will return (Image: Marcus Dean)

The event will help raise funds for The Sea Scouts of Old Leigh, and will feature “maritime demonstrations, tasters and displays,” which will pay homage to the town’s fishing and boating legacy.

The day will also see the return of traditional favourites such as the bowsprit, football on the mud, tug-o-war, the sedan chair race, the Scout pentathlon.

New activities will include a talks stage, demonstrations, and taster sessions.

Organisers have said the day will be a “joyful gathering” for locals, visitors, and watersports enthusiasts.