A former fleet commodore triumphed in a historic race aboard his father’s yacht as the winds dwindled to almost nothing.

The thrilling climax unfolded with yachts, some classic, inching towards a green buoy marking the Windermere finish line.

Richard Thompson relished victory in the sole race of the day aboard Capella, as Royal Windermere Yacht Club commemorated 120 years of the 17 footers, a class designed for the lake.

Richard Thompson on the helm and Roger Haigh celebrate winning the only race of the day in the classic 17ft yacht CapellaRichard Thompson on the helm and Roger Haigh celebrate winning the only race of the day in the classic 17ft yacht Capella (Image: Ian Lamming)

A fleet of yachts formed a commemorative sail, delighting hundreds of spectators on the water and shoreline.

The oldest vessels in the 30-strong fleet, dating back 90 years, are 25ft long but measure 17ft at the waterline.

They stand as possibly the second oldest keel boat racing fleet in Europe.

Richard Thompson won on his father's yachtRichard Thompson won on his father's yacht (Image: Ian Lamming)

Fleet captain David Milburn said: "They look so beautiful, graceful and elegant.

"If you drew a yacht as a child this is how it would look.

"The day was a perfect way to celebrate the 120 years.

A ferry picks its way carefully through the fleet of 17 footersA ferry picks its way carefully through the fleet of 17 footers (Image: Ian Lamming)

"Twenty-four yachts sailed through Bowness Bay, dressed overall, which was a wonderful spectacle.

"My thanks go to all those who made it an event to remember."

Following the racing, the yacht club festivities included a hog roast and live music from the Elderly Brothers.