Fit fundraisers are invited to prepare for the return of a popular raft race along the River Avon.
One of the highlights of the Melksham Food & River Festival in September is the fun-filled challenge for teams to build their own raft and paddle their way along a one-kilometre course. The Foxhangers River Races, sponsored by Foxhangers Canal Holidays near Devizes, are organised by the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust.
The event, on Saturday September 4 at 12noon, offers cash prizes and the opportunity for teams to seek sponsorship for their own chosen charities.
Canal Trust event organiser Alan Lank said, “We appreciate there’s still an element of uncertainty regarding the timing and pace of the easing of lockdown restrictions, but – thanks to hard work of the festival committee – the event is still scheduled to go ahead.
“Therefore we want to give as much notice as possible so that people can start forming their teams, and designing and building their rafts.
“Teams could include friends, family, clubs or businesses. It’s going to be lots of fun!”
The race starts and finishes by the Adventure Centre in King George V Park. Foxhangers Canal Holidays have pledged a top prize of £100 for the winning team, £50 for second place, and £50 for the best turned-out crew and raft. The minimum age is 16, with a maximum crew of six. Entry is just £5 per person.
Rules and entry forms are available from www.melkshamfoodandriverfestival.co.uk/raft-race
The aim of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is to restore the waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Melksham to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade and the River Thames near Abingdon. Visit www.wbct.org.uk