Shrewsbury coracle championships raise £20,000 for charity

The championships, which took place at Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury in September, saw scores of businesses taking to the water in an effort to be crowned champions.

Helen Knight, fundraising manager for Macmillan in Shropshire, revealed the efforts of participants, supporters and sponsors raised £22,000, which will now be used to help people with cancer in Shropshire.

The figure means the event raised £7,000 more than last year's championship. Mrs Knight said: "We were delighted with the turn-out and it was a fantastic day.

"The sun shone and despite a bit of a breeze out on the water, everyone did really well in their coracles. Having said that, quite a few competitors ended up in the water, but it was all part of the fun.

"We want to say a big thank you to everyone who came along, and in particular I would like to thank the team of volunteers who helped organise the event."

In total 36 teams took part in six heats, with the top three from each heat going through to the semi-finals. The river banks were packed with spectators, including Shrewsbury Mayor Miles Kenny, all seeking to catch a glimpse of the action.

The overall winners were the Buckshot Bandits, from McMillan Masonry, and a special prize went to Cameron Homes for raising the most money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The team were presented with a new trophy, called the Richard Bayliss Cup, named in memory of volunteer committee member, Richard Bayliss, who was instrumental in starting the event seven years ago.

Macmillan has already set a date for next year's Coracle World Championships – on September 16. The charity provides support for people diagnosed with cancer.

Macmillan provides medical support but its funds are also used for practical support with anything from time off for carers to lifts to hospital.