ENTRIES are invited for the third annual raft race from Morwellham Quay to Calstock, which this year will allow competitors to raise money for a charity of their own choice in addition to Tavistock and District Mencap Society.

This year's race will be on Sunday, August 18, starting at 2pm as high water approaches. There have been a couple of changes which organisers hope will make the event more attractive to participants.

Firstly, although the entrance fee remains at £5 per person, the additional sponsorship money raised will now be split 50/50. Half of this will go to the local Mencap society, but the remainder can go to a charity chosen by entrants.

Secondly, Morwellham Quay has agreed that entrants may bring their rafts, or sections of them, to the quay and build them there — but they need to know in advance if anyone wishes to take advantage of this.

Finally, in order to make the event as attractive as possible and widen interest, it is hoped to have three local steamboats attending.

There are five categories, including the most technically innovative raft and the best dressed crew as well as the fastest raft overall, and rafts can be any size from one person up.

Safety rules include making sure that your design of raft floats properly and does not come apart when afloat! But just to be sure, safety boats and crews will be provided by Walrus Marine, with a St John Ambulance crew present to assist if required.

Application and sponsorship forms are available from Rex Harpham on 01822 612981.