A day of events is planned in north Norfolk later this month to mark the centenary of a devastating natural disaster which affected a large expanse of the county.

Historic boats, exhibitions, a new book, DVD, specially-commissioned embroidery, traditional fete and guided walk are among a wealth of attractions centred around Coltishall Common on Sunday August 26.

That date is the precise anniversary of the 1912 flood which saw more than three months average rainfall deluge Norfolk in the space of just 29 hours in a storm described at the time as being of 'biblical proportions.'

Three lives were lost in Norwich - including that of a baby swept out of his mother's arms - hundreds were left homeless, an estimated 52 Norfolk bridges were wrecked, and the 133-year navigation of the River Bure finished overnight after all five locks were washed away and never repaired.

A symbolic highlight of the commemorations will see a token cargo of grain carried by Buxton Lamas Sea Scouts and their leaders in canoes from Aylsham to Coltishall, where it will be transferred to the waiting wherry Albion for onward passage the following day along the Bure.

The piece of theatre will recreate the heyday of the Bure navigation, from 1779 until the 1912 flood, when wherries would bring cargoes including coal, marl and cattle cake from Yarmouth to Aylsham and load up with flour and agricultural products for the home journey.

Earlier this year the Bure Navigation Conservation Trust (BNCT), under chairman Stuart Wilson, was formed to mark the centenary and raise money for legacy projects including a footpath along the entire 9.5 miles of the former navigation, from Coltishall to Aylsham, interpretive noticeboards and records of the river's flora and fauna.

The trust, backed by Broadland District Council, has organised the August 26 commemorations together with the Coltishall Commons Trust and the Norfolk Wherry Trust, who will all share proceeds.

Mr Wilson, from Brampton, near Aylsham, hopes the day will be memorable, informative and fun.

He said: 'The Coltishall event is a chance for everyone to have a great time whilst remembering the past and laying foundations for the future by raising funds for three worthwhile Norfolk-based charities.'

? Organisers are appealing for more volunteers to help on the day and say there is also space for a few more charity stalls, especially those connected with history, transport or the environment. Contact: www. aylsham-navigation.norfolkparishes.gov.uk or the Bure Navigation Conservation Trust Facebook page.