Downham Water Festival 9th Aug

[Tim]

Hythe Bridge, Great Ouse Relief Channel

28 teams will compete in the 2009 Water Festival dragon boat racing competition. The teams come from all over West Norfolk with two RAF teams from even further afield. All of them are aiming to raise money for their own nominated charities. Howard Phillips, chair of the organising working party, said “this year we are planning to run four-boat races which will make for an even more exciting spectacle as well as being great fun to take part in” Teams range from local clubs, scout troops, companies and pubs to service teams from RAF Marham and RAF Cranwell. There are several junior teams who will compete for their own trophy.

Ashore there will be lots to see and do. More stalls than ever will be on the green as well as a fun fair and food outlets. The Mayor of Downham Market, John Doyle, says “the working party, who incidentally all give of their time freely on a voluntary basis, have worked really hard to build on what has been a very successful event for the town. There is something for everybody and it is always a great fun day out”

The day gets underway at 10am on Sunday 9th August – entry is free of charge to all. Programmes are available in advance or at the gate for 50p. Howard said “please help us to keep the Festival going by buying a programme. It is quite handy as it lists town events for the rest of 2009 and by buying a copy you will help to support the event”.