IT may only be May, but plans are already well under way for the annual raft race organised by the Tavistock branch of Mencap

The race, from Morwellham Quay to Calstock, is being held on Sunday July 20 ? the fourth time the event has been staged.

Rex Harpham, organiser of the race, is hoping as many teams as possible will enter a raft and by doing so, raise much needed funds for Tavistock and District Mencap ? as well as other charities, which will receive half of each team?s sponsorship money.

Rex said: ?Morwellham Quay has kindly agreed that, for a week prior to the race, entrants may bring down their rafts, or sections of them, and build them there.

?By doing this, it should make it easier on race day and save a last minute rush on the Sunday morning.?

Rex advised any entrants to let Morewellham Quay know in advance if they wished to take advantage of this facility.

There are several categories of classes in the race, ranging from fastest raft overall, most interesting craft and best dressed crew, to the most technically innovative raft ? a category for those who like to be at the leading edge of raft race design technology!

In the theme class, entrants can let their imagination run wild ? rafts could be based on a historical, entertainment, sporting or artistic theme or could even be used to advertise a company, club or group.

The rafts can be of any size from one person upwards, should be made up of flotation units either rigid or not rigidly linked, home-made and not a commercial design and should be free of pollutants. They can be propelled by paddles, oars or a propeller but must be powered only by hands or feet.

Safety boats on the day will be provided by Walrus Marine ? St John Ambulance will also be in attendance.

Anyone interested in entering what should be a fun day out for everyone should contact Rex Harpham at the Molly Owen Centre in Tavistock, on 01822 612981.

Entry costs £5 per crew member.