Teams from across Shropshire have taken to the water to raise an estimated £25,000 for charity and compete for the title of “World Coracle Champions”.

The event, organised by Macmillan Cancer Support, took place yesterday on the River Severn from Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury.

A “record breaking” 49 teams of four competed in eight heats with the 12 fastest going forward to a place in the semi finals.

Among the teams taking part were four members of the Conservative Party in Shropshire, including MP for Shrewsbury Daniel Kawczynski and MP for North Shropshire Owen Paterson.

Mr Kawczynski said before he took to the water his aim this year was to not end up in the river as he did during last year’s event.

He said: “I am the team captain this year and I am hoping Mr Paterson won’t push me in. Our tactic is to try to stay afloat.”

Despite a valiant effort, Shropshire MPs finished fourth in their heat and missed out on a place in the semi-final.

Although Mr Kawczynski managed to stay afloat, Conservative candidate for Telford Tom Biggins did end up in the drink.

The overall winners were RAF 60 Squadron who celebrated by drinking champagne from their trophy.

In second place were Berrys and in third were “Four Poofs and a Paddle”, also from RAF Shawbury.

As well as watching the event the crowds enjoyed a hog roast and Pimms bar.

Children were kept entertained with a circus skills workshop and a chance to look around an RAF helicopter.

Spectators also had the chance to purchase raffle tickets and bid in an auction for a bottle of vodka worth £120.

Sara Thomas, fundraising manager for Macmillan Shropshire, said: “This event would not be possible without all of the helpers.

“We’ve got lifeguards, stewards and people manning the stalls, there are about 40 volunteers altogether helping us today.”

Martin Wood, Shrewsbury town crier, who opened the event with the High Sheriff of Shropshire Anna Turner, said it was his first time watching the race.

He said: “I’m enjoying it. It’s nice to see people other than me doing stupid things. I am glad to have both feet firmly on the ground.”