Expect to see some unusual looking rafts rowing their way down the River Derwent this festive season, as Matlock’s quirky race takes place.
The annual Matlock Raft Race takes place every Boxing Day and is organised by the Derbyshire Association of Sub Aqua Clubs (DASAC), with creatively-minded teams competing in quirky homemade crafts.
This year will be the 58th raft race to be held in Matlock, having originally started all the way back in 1961 with 100 daring rafts taking to the water.
The rafts will enter the water on the River Derwent, Matlock and will finish at Cromford Meadows. The event attracts thousands of spectators who come to cheer on the teams as they race down the river and over the weir.
The course is about four miles long and spectators can watch the race from various points along the river bank. It is recommended to wear some waterproofs and warm clothing to keep warm and dry whilst teams splash by!
The Matlock Raft Race aims to raise money for the R.N.L.I. and over the years the association has raised enough money to be able to buy a lifeboat (the Spirit of Derbyshire) and a small inshore rescue lifeboat.
As with all good charity events, participants work hard on their fancy dress and the rafts come in all shapes and sizes. Past competitors have dressed up as The Muppets, Santa and his Elves, Nuns on the Run, the March of the Penguins, The Flintstones and a crew of pirates complete with ship.
When: 26th December 2019, 10am
Where: Matlock, Derbyshire
£: Free to watch
More info: www.facebook.com/matlockraftevent