Dragons fire up for charity boat race

Hordes of dragon boats were seen coming over the water in Chasewater – not in a Viking invasion but for a charity race.

Twenty teams of intrepid paddlers, from businesses and community groups from across South Staffordshire, got out onto the lake at Chasewater Country Park to race on the waters and compete in the 4th Annual Dragon Boat Race.

The teams of 16 had to race on a 250-metre course in their unusual boats.

Hundreds of spectators came to watch on the shoreline at the park, just off the A5 in Brownhills.

The event was organised by Cannock Rotary Club and aimed to raise funds for the County Air Ambulance.

John Grimley, chairman of community services for the Rotary Club, said: "It all went pretty well. There were a lot of people there and there was a tremendous atmosphere. It was really good.

"I don't know how much money we've made yet for the air ambulance but we raised £18,000 last year, so I would think we have raised somewhere in that region again."

As well as the racing on the water, there was a family fun day on the land with a BBQ, funfair, music, and children's entertainments among the attractions.

Stalls set up by various charities across the area were also there for them to raise money and awareness about their causes.

As well as County Air Ambulance being the main beneficiaries of the event, Cannock-based national charity Newlife is also set to benefit.

The charity specialises in research, awareness-raising and support to aid disabled and terminally ill children.