DRAGONS took to the Avon at the weekend.
The Shakespeare Hospice Dragon Boat Race saw crews compete in multiple timed races, accompanied by a drummer beating to help keep them in unison, and a professional helmsperson in the stern to guide the boat.
Seventeen teams, from companies in and around Stratford, entered, and Shakespeare Hospice also entered its own team The Purple Pirates.
Power Paddlers, from Western Power Distribution, were crowned winners, finishing the final race in just over one minute.
In second place was Two Oars One Trophy, from Actemium East Midlands, followed by Blazing Paddles from Actemium Coventry in third.
Adriana Geary, fundraiser for The Shakespeare Hospice, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s race, and to all our volunteers, as well as Stratford Boat Club, who helped to stage a great event.
“All of the competitors threw themselves into it and looked as though they were having brilliant fun, despite the weather!”
The final total for money raised is still to be confirmed, but organisers are hoping for around £16,000.
