This summer’s St Neots Dragon Boat Race takes place on August 4 and crews can take advantage of a discount if they enter before April 30.

The race will be staged on Regatta Meadow with more than 20 amateur crews taking part and the event also raises money for charitable causes and aims to raise the profile of dragon boat racing as a sport. Proceeds from the event will be donated to local charities and not-for-profit groups supported by the mayor of St Neots and the rotary club.

The event is organised collaboratively by St Neots Town Council, the Rotary Club of St Neots St Mary’s and the St Neots Dragon Boat Team. Each year the St Neots Dragon Boat Team attracts several new members as a result of the event. friends whilst enjoying the great outdoors.

“More than a dozen crews have entered the challenge so far, but further entries are needed to raise much-needed funds for local charities,” said Katie Williams from St Neots Town Council.

She added: “The race attracts a wide range of participants, including corporate groups, sports clubs and friends keen to enjoy a fun challenge. A unique benefit for crews entering the race is the opportunity to have a pre-race day training session, courtesy of the St Neots Dragon Boat Team. This enables crews to gain some practise before the big race and pick up a few tips from the experts.”

This year, the organisers are offering an early entry discounted price and all crews who enter before April 30 will pay £300,plus VAT. Entry fees will increase to £350, plus VAT from May onwards.

Why enter the St Neots Charity Dragon Boat Challenge?

*? No experience necessary and all equipment is provided

?* St Neots provides the premier race venue in the region, taking place on the River Great Ouse

alongside the picturesque Riverside Park

?* St Neots is the only charity dragon boat race offering crews complimentary pre-race day training sessions led by qualified coaches

For spectators, there will be plenty of bankside entertainment to keep all the family entertained, including food and charity stalls, a licensed bar and live race commentary. Younger spectators can have fun in the children’s activity zone which will include live magic shows, arts and crafts by

Vir2oso, face painting and fun fair rides.

The day promises to be an enjoyable spectacle for all the family, with racing taking place from 11am until 5pm.

To request a crew entry pack, contact St Neots Town Council: 01480 388 911 / enquiries@stneotstc.gov.uk or download a copy from www.visitstneots.co.uk