TEN teams took to the water to paddle for pride and charity in Astley village's third annual raft race on the Bridgewater Canal.

And this year there was a special trophy awarded to the winning team.

Previously the St John's Ambulance Brigade had organised the event which raises funds for various charities. This year, however,the Brigade was unable to assist, and Harry Worthington, the landlord of the Boathouse Inn at Astley, took up the challenge. Harry said: "The first year the Boathouse team came second, and the following year we came first. This year the Boathouse team won again, closely followed by the Miner's Arms.

"We were particularly pleased that we won because we had a trophy made for a young village lad, Michael Spencer, who tragically died recently. Michael was my nephew, and we wanted to win it for him so we really got stuck in. Luckily we won the first trophy, and it's now up for grabs again next year.

"So far we have raised £1,000 for the Welsh Air Ambulance service, who were the nominated charity for this year's event. The race is still in its infancy but it gets bigger and better each year, and now the challenge is on to beat the Boathouse team next year.

"It was a very good day, the place was buzzing and the canal side was full. The weather wasn't too favourable, but there was a good turn out and lots of support from the spectators. We even had cheerleaders this year, and a good time was had by all."

If anyone wants to enter a team next year, then contact the Boathouse on 01942 883300 and ask for Harry.