Rowers take to water for Shrewsbury dragon boat race
[gallery] Hundreds of rowers took to the River Severn for Severn Hospice's annual Dragon Boat Race, raising more than £30,000 for the charity.
More than 1,000 spectators watched the action from the river banks in Shrewsbury's Quarry yesterday as 27 teams of rowers competed to be the fastest on the water.
The 250-metre course started at Kingsland Toll Bridge and rowers paddled upstream to cross the finish line outside Pengwern Boat Club.
The Porthill Pirates were crowned champions on the day – celebrating their second win in a row at the annual event.
They were presented with their award by the mayor and mayoress of Shrewsbury, Councillor Jon Tandy and his wife Diane. The day, which started at 10am, featured more than 50 races, including a ladies only event.
One boat capsized during the event, but otherwise all competitors stayed dry.
Organiser Sarah Hawthorne, from Severn Hospice, said the day had been a success.
She said: "It went really well and we have hopefully raised £35,000. The weather has been brilliant.
"One boat did go over and the rowers fell out but they all dried off and were fine.
"The atmosphere has been fantastic, with lots of families on both sides of the Quarry cheering on the rowers."
Health workers from Shropshire's Clinical Commissioning Group were among those who took part in the race.
The Paddle for Health team, including GPs, directors, staff and partners, wore sports themed fancy dress for the occasion.
Dr Caron Morton, accountable officer for the CCG, led the team.
She said: "As a new organisation, we wanted to raise awareness of our role as the local leaders in the NHS. We thought with so many people in the Quarry, this is a good opportunity to meet residents."
Registration is now open for the 2014 Dragon Boat Festival. The event will take place on June 22 next year at Pengwern Boat Club. To find out more call (01743) 354450 or e-mail appeals@severnhospice.org.uk
