Delighted organisers of the Coracle World Championships in Shrewsbury say the event has raised more than £20,000 for people affected by cancer in Shropshire – and a date has already been set for its return next year.
Teams from a variety of businesses and organisations took part in the relay race across the River Severn in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, and the day was a great success.
Now after totting up the amounts raised by all 36 teams, organisers have revealed that the total stands at £22,000.
Helen Knight, fundraising manager for Macmillan in Shropshire, said: “We were delighted with the turn-out from teams and spectators, and it was a fantastic day.
“The sun shone and despite a bit of a breeze out on the water, everyone did really well in their coracles.
“Having said that, quite a few competitors ended up in the water, but it was all part of the fun and there was a great atmosphere throughout the whole afternoon.
“We want to say a big thank you to everyone who came along, and in particular I would like to thank the team of volunteers who helped organise the event – it really is hugely appreciated.”
The event, which took place at Pengwern Boat Club on September 11, saw the teams taking part in six heats, with the top three from each heat going through to the semi-finals.
The overall winners were the Buckshot Bandits, from McMillan Masonry, and a special prize went to Cameron Homes for raising the most money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
The team were presented with a new trophy, called the Richard Bayliss Cup, named in memory of volunteer committee member, Richard Bayliss, who was instrumental in starting the event seven years ago.
A date has already been set for next year’s Coracle World Championships, and people are being asked to put September 16, 2016, in their diaries ready to do it all again next year.
Team J&PR at the race
