While all eyes will be focussed on the River Thames this weekend for the Oxford and Cambridge University boat race, another water-based race continues to welcome those eager to take part in Oulton Broad.

The East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival will return to the water this summer with people of all shapes, sizes and levels of fitness urged to take part.

Under the expert guidance of a qualified helm from organisers Gable Events, crews of up to 11 will take on the 200m course. Each team will have three attempts to improve their finishing time to reach the semi-finals.

More than 30 crews are expected to take on the challenge and attempt to stop Norwich-based Norfolk Drywall from regaining their champion's crown.

The festival, sponsored by Warner Leisure Hotels and supported by this newspaper, will take place on Oulton Broad on Saturday, August 31.

The Dragon Boat Festival is an open charity event with entrants invited to raise money for the charity of their choosing.

To take part, go to: www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/eastanglia.