More than 2,500 people attended a major marine-themed event premiered St George’s last month.

Ray Lambert, Marine Expo committee member and the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, said the event resulted in a donation of $1,000 to the restoration of the town’s landmark replica of the Deliverance.

Mr Lambert added: “We are pleased with the turnout of the first Marine Expo.

“The community and business owners came out in support of this event and as a result we were able to give back to a worthwhile historical landmark.”

The Expo highlighted Bermuda’s maritime history and with more than 50 different vendors included watersports and displays of the latest in boats and sailing equipment.

Tours were conducted by the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences’ research ship Ocean Endeavour and taster sailing trips for youngsters were provided by the America’s Cup Endeavour programme.

America’s Cup stars also turned up and took part in a race, as well as signing autographs for fans.

Jermaine Simons, sales manager of Rubis Energy Bermuda, the lead sponsors of the event, said: “One of the aims of the Expo was to honour the maritime history of Bermuda.

“The Deliverance represents a key turning point of our maritime history.”

The Deliverance and sister Patience were built from the wreckage of the Sea Venture, which was shipwrecked off St George’s in 1609 and led to the permanent settlement of Bermuda by the English.