PRESTON docks is preparing for the show of the century as it makes way for this year's Maritime Festival.

Tall ships are sailing in from all over the country, more boats are docked in the marina and clowns Captain Rowlocks and Unable Seaman Bilge have landed.

But the star of the show is sure to be the Zebu, Preston's new flagship which local businesses, charities, education and civic organisations are backing to make it an ambassador for the town.

The festival is on July 4, 5 and 6, and people from all over the region will flock to see highlights including the Ocean Youth Club vessel, the Taikoo, with its all Asian women crew.

The Kerne, a steam harbour tug will be chugging around so you can see a marine steam engine in action.

But if it's more excitement you're after, then the army's rope slide could be just up your tree, and if you're interested in the military, don't miss the Royal Navy Simulators which give an insight into the thrills and spills of flying from a frigate. There's also a trimaran, a fairground, a static hovercraft display, Les Dawson's E-type Jaguar on show, and stalls and exhibitions by hundreds of maritime agencies.

If the festival really wets your appetite for life on the ocean waves, you can buy your own vessel at the used boat sale, call (01772) 733595 for details.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.