Deepings Raft Race raises money for the town’s library, leisure centre campaign and Little Miracles
A river was awash with colour when 23 teams took part in a community raft race.
Hundreds of people lined the banks of the River Welland to cheer on the entrants to the Deepings Raft Race on Sunday afternoon.
This year’s theme of children’s television proved to be a popular choice with The Teletubbies, Smurfs, Flintstones and pirates all making an appearance.
The trophy for the best decorated float went to leaders from 2nd Stamford Scouts for their Winnie the Pool themed raft.
The event was split into six different categories with trophies awarded to each winner and medals for everyone who took part.
Garford Farm Machinery won the main race with a time of 13min 38sec, three minutes ahead of the second placed team. The Banana Splits won the fun race in 14min 42sec and the Surfing Smurfs took the ladies title in 19min 35sec.
L&S Carpets and Flooring won the business race in 25min 19sec while the Thirsty Giraffe was the only entrant in the pub category, crossing the finish line in 25min 29sec.
Five youth teams completed a shorter course with Children’s Team V winning in 11min 6sec.
Members of the raft race committee were delighted with the support they received, particularly as the future of the race had been in doubt when several committee members stepped down last year.
Spokesperson Michelle Urquhart said: “It was brilliant to be able to host the race again and to see so much support. Seeing the community come together like that makes it all worthwhile.
“The raft race is a huge part of Deeping and we couldn’t have done it without the support of our sponsors, volunteers and everyone who came out to support it.
“This year’s theme inspired so much creativity and imagination. It was a riot of colour.”
Hundreds of people lined the riverbank between Deeping St James and Market Deeping to watch the action alongside a variety of stalls, fairground rides and food vendors.
Proceeds from the event are still being counted but will be split between the Deepings Community Library, the Deepings Community Leisure Centre Project and the Little Miracles charity which supports children with additional needs.
Donations can still be made online at www.gofundme.com/f/deepings-raft-race-2024
Michelle said: “The committee would like to thank everyone for making it such a great day and we look forward to the event being bigger and better next year.”
What did you think of the event? Share your thoughts in the comments below.