Racers fired up for Dragon Boat event

Sir Steven Redgrave wannabes are being urged to get out their paddles and make some waves at the 4th annual charity Dragon Boat Race at Chasewater Country Park.

National disabled children's charity, Newlife, based in Cannock, is calling on rowers to take part in the race and raise much-needed funds. The event at the park, off the A5 near Brownhills, is on August 10 and is also raising cash for the County Air Ambulance. Teams taking part are challenged to raise as much sponsorship for the charity of their choice or the two 'official' charities.

Organised by Cannock Rotary Club, the Dragon Boat Race features teams of 16 paddlers racing over a 250-metre course.

Colin Brown, Newlife operations director, said: "The Dragon Boat Race is always a great fun day out and we hope to raise a lot of money for charity with the activities on offer this year."

Race day will involve a spectacular family fun day with a barbecue, funfair, local band, children's entertainments and many other attractions.

Last year's race raised over £18,000 and organisers are hoping to beat that.

Newlife is the UK's leading child health charity specialising in research and support to aid disabled and terminally ill children. As well as funding research, the charity also offers support services.

The County Air Ambulance receives no government or Lottery money and needs £5.6 million a year.

President of the Rotary Club Cannock, Mike Sutton added: "Last year's Dragon Boat Race raised over £18,000 for local charities and this year we hope to do even better."

Anyone interested in getting involved can call Mike Sutton at Cannock Rotary Club on 07957 835222, email mike_sutton@btconnect.com or call Colin Brown at Newlife on 01543 468888 or email cbrown@bdfnewlife.co.uk