Over 100 rafts take part in 50th Monmouth Raft Race
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MORE than 100 rafts were launched off the banks of the River Wye on the weekend for the 50th anniversary of the Monmouth Raft Race, Sponsored by Basepoint Chepstow.
Thousands of spectators lined the riverbank and enjoyed the fantastic weather to support the teams as they made their way towards the finish line.
Dozens of teams took part, many sporting fancy dress as they sailed their colourfully decorated rafts along the six-and-a-half mile route to Tump Farm at Whitebrook, where a family festival featuring live music and attractions including a hog roast, traditional side stalls, children’s fairground rides, live music, and local ale was waiting for them.
The event, organised by the Rotary Club of Monmouth, raises funds for local charities - including Basepoint Chesptow’s chosen charity St David’s Hospice Care - and hoped to bring in a huge £50,000, beating last year’s record amount of £40,000.
Norman Williams, Rotary’s raft race co-ordinator, said that it was a very successful day with lots of people in attendance: “The weather was perfect and the sun was truly golden for our golden year.” He added “The 50th anniversary is a very special milestone for the club.”
Tina Colegate, Centre Manager at Basepoint Chepstow, said “Basepoint are very proud to support such a fantastic and long-running event. We were delighted that the day was such a success and can’t wait to hear how much was raised”.