IT’S the ultimate experience in messing about on the river – and teams are now being sought to take on the challenge of the annual Lions Raft Race.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the event, organised by the Shakespeare and Wellesbourne Lions. Since it began in 1976, it has raised more than £750,000 for local charities.
This year’s main beneficiary will be Heart of England Mencap, working to support people with learning disabilities across Warwickshire and Worcestershire.
The race takes place on Sunday July 24.
It will see teams of rafters paddling 7.5 miles down the Avon from Wasperton to Stratford, negotiating two weirs en route in their home-made crafts.
Race committee chairman Kelvin McIntosh said: “This is a milestone year for the race and we need our local businesses and groups to get behind us and sign-up for the challenge, as so many have done before.
“We can’t promise you’ll be dry at the end, but we can promise you’ll have great fun along the way – putting a team together, building your own raft, raising sponsorship – and hoping you stay afloat.”
Visit www.raftrace.org.uk for an entry form and further details.