Dragon Boat Racing. Photo: M Wright

It’s almost that time of year again, when spectators are drawn by the sound of drums to the Great River Ouse Relief Channel by Hythe Bridge.

Last year over 3000 visitors came to watch the Dragon Boats battle it out for first place in the Downham Market Water Festival Dragon Boat Regatta and it’s hoped that this year will be the best year to date.

Downham Market Water Festival takes place on Sunday 5th August, and is a date not to be missed! With free admission for spectators, a host of on-shore activities and an array of arena events.

Organised by Downham Market Town Council and sponsored by the Whitfield Group, the EDP and the Lynn Free Press, the event is now in its 6th year. 12 teams have currently signed up to race but a maximum of 28 teams are available, meaning that you haven’t missed the boat if you’d like to take part.

This year, Downham Market Town Council has teamed up with national children’s charity Action for Children who are taking single entries for a special fundraising Dragon Boat team. Laura Hanratta, Fundraiser for Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, said “The Downham Market Water Festival is a brilliant and exciting event for companies and families to get involved in and have fun with friends and colleagues whilst raising vital funds for local neglected and vulnerable children and young people.”

If you’re not the sea-faring type, there’s plenty to see and do for those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land. On-shore activities include an array of craft and charity stalls, a funfair and exciting arena events providing live entertainment for everyone to enjoy. There will also be plenty of refreshment stalls selling a range of yummy treats.

Sarah Mawby, Events Coordinator at Downham Market Town Council said “this year’s Water Festival really is an event not to be missed. Support from the public continues to grow year on year and it’s an honour to be able to assist in the planning of such a unique community event. We’ve launched a new social media campaign this year to raise awareness of the event so if you’re a Facebook fiend or a Twitter addict be sure to follow us to keep up-to-date with our most recent event plans and competitions.”

This year’s Water Festival will take place on Sunday 5th August 2012 from 10am by the Great River Ouse Relief Channel at Hythe Bridge Downham Market.

For team enquiries please contact Sarah Mawby on 01366 387770 or email sarah@downhammarkettc.co.uk

Should you wish to participate in the Action for Children fundraising team, please contact Laura Hanratta on 01284 755953 or email laura.Hanratta@actionforchildren.org.uk

DRAGON_BOAT_TEAM_INFO.pdf