Teams still wanted for annual raft races in Hilgay

Keeping afloat will be the aim of the game next weekend when the annual Hilgay charity raft races return for a day of family fun.

The event, organised by Downham Market Rotary Club and Hilgay butcher Ali Dent, will take place at Hilgay Bridge Field on Sunday, July 8.

Mr Dent said: “It’s a good, fun family event and hopefully the weather will be lovely as that helps.”

Teams are still wanted to take part in the races, which will raise funds to support the East Anglian Children’s Hospices (EACH) and the Rotary Foundation.

Race entry is free of charge but teams are asked to raise sponsorship money for the charity causes.

The rotary club may have one or two ready-made rafts available but they say putting your own together is not difficult.

Crews of four are allowed and the course is 300 metres on a placid, waist-deep stretch of the River Wissey next to Hilgay Bridge.

The fun kicks off at noon with the first race starting at 1pm.

Wally Webb of BBC Radio Norfolk is master of ceremonies for the day.

The races, which have now been going for about 40 years, will also see the annual Hilgay Duck Race.

The day will include charity stalls, a barbecue, music and visitors will be able to buy flour to pelt at the raft crews, as is the tradition.

Mr Dent said: “We have only missed one or two races in the 40 years.

“We are still looking for teams to enter for this year’s races.”

Entrance to the event is £1 and concessions and under 12s get in for free.

If you are interested in taking part, contact the rotary club on downhammarketrotary@hotmail.co.uk or call Howard Phillips on 01945 430880, or pop into Dent’s Butchers in Hilgay and fill in an entry form.