Hundreds of people take to the water for the return of the East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival to Oulton Broad this weekend.

Crews representing local businesses and organisations will race their brightly painted Chinese dragon boats over a 200m race course at Nicholas Everitt Park, to raise funds for a local charity.

Carol Lester, director of festival organisers, Gable Events, said: 'We are expecting another large audience on the day to soak up the atmosphere and cheer on the teams.

'The Dragon Boat Festival would not be taking place without the enthusiasm and involvement of East Coast Hospice and we hope that the teams will continue to support this fantastic local charity and help to 'Raise the Roof' of Margaret Chadd House.'

The day of racing and entertainment will take place this Sunday, between 10.30am and 4.30pm, with competing teams aiming to knock reigning champions, Netmatters, off their pedestal.

Visitors to the festival, supported by the Lowestoft Journal, will also be able to enjoy family entertainment on the bank including inflatable attractions, theatrical performances and a flypast at around 2pm from a Spitfire of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Trophies will be presented by the charity to the top three crews, the best placed mixed crew, the 'best dressed' crew and the team that raises the most money.

Jeff Wood, community fund-raiser for East Coast Hospice said: 'It will be another wonderful day for colleagues to get together, cheered on by their families and friends.

'Our own crew is not expecting to win but we look forward to taking part and seeing you all there.'

Entrance to the festival is free and for further information visit: www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/eastanglia

To find out more about East Coast Hospice, call 01493 718707 or visit www.eastcoasthospice.org.uk

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