Hospice Dragon Boat Festival makes a record-breaking £120,000
More than 50 teams took part in this year’s Severn Hospice Dragon Boat Festival
Severn Hospice's annual Dragon Boat Festival broke all records this year, after the charity said it raised £126,000.
More than 50 teams took part in the charity's flagship event in July, which has been taking to the waters of the River Severn in Shrewsbury since 2010.
The 2026 festival saw teams from across the region compete for dragon boat glory in colourful costumes, while raising vital funds to support local people living with incurable illness.
Crews of up to 17 rowers raced in 40ft dragon boats throughout the day, cheered on by supporters lining the banks of the River Severn.
As well as fierce competition on the water, rowers embraced the event's famous community spirit with fancy dress, fundraising activities and plenty of friendly rivalry.
Jo Davies, Event Fundraiser at Severn Hospice, said: "We had such a great weekend on the water with hundreds of local people coming together to have fun – and to support our caring services.
“To have raised more than £120,000 is simply phenomenal. Every penny raised helps us continue providing specialist care and support to local people and their families when they need us most.
"We are incredibly grateful to every team, supporter, volunteer and sponsor who helped make this year's Dragon Boat Festival such a huge success.
"Our services are provided free of charge, but we need to raise £2 for every £3 we spend. That's why events like the Dragon Boat Festival are so important. Every team that took part should feel enormously proud of the difference they've made to a family facing heartbreak.”
As well as a contest for the fastest time on the river, an overall Dragons champion was crowned based on the highest fundraising total combined with fastest time, and this year’s winner was Team Marilyn Mon Row, who raised more than £11,000 for the hospice.
Alistair from Marilyn Mon Row said: "It's just such a fantastic day out and a brilliant cause to support.
"The atmosphere on the day is incredible. Everyone is there for the same reason and at the end of it you're already asking, 'When are we doing that again?'
“And once you start fundraising and get some momentum going, it really motivates you to do even more. We set ourselves a target of £6,000 at the start, but once £10,000 came into sight we became determined to reach it and ended up smashing that goal!"
The popular event is set to return to the River Severn in Shrewsbury on 17-18 July next year, with boats selling fast.
Jo added: “If you're looking for a fabulous day out on the water while supporting a local cause, why not join us at Dragons next summer?”
“Gather a team from your workplace, sports club, choir, family or friend group and join us for an unforgettable day on the River Severn.
“Places are going fast, so don't miss the boat!”
Anyone interested in taking part in next year's Dragon Boat Festival can find out more at www.severnhospice.org.uk/events
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