ENERGETIC teams are being sought by a Worcestershire charity to take part in an unusual challenge.

The county's branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MND) is hoping to attract willing volunteers to up-oars for this year's Race the Dragon Regatta.

The event is being organised by the Worcester Dragon Boat Racing Club and will be in aid of local charities.

It will take place on the river Severn at Worcester on Sunday, June 17.

Tim Stavert, vice chairman of Worcestershire's MND association, hoped to get lots of teams involved to help raise funds for the charity.

He said: "We want to get two or three teams together at least to raise money for people living locally with the disease. it should be quite a fun day and it could be used by local companies as a good team- building day. All we ask in return is a bit of sponsorship for our group."

Motor Neurone Disease is the name given to a group of related diseases affecting the motor neurones in the brain and spinal cord.

The motor neuornes are the cells which control muscles and their degeneration leads to weakness and wasting of muscles. Some people have difficulty with speech, chewing or swallowing. But the mind and senses are not affected.

The MND Association supports people living with the disease, along with their carers, relatives and friends.Dragon boat crews of 16 people can be of mixed abilities and ages, minimum age of 12, and no previous experience is necessary. There will be refreshments and a barbecue.

Entry fees are £120 per crew, reduced fees of £60 apply for junior or crews aged under 18.

To join in and for more details about racing for Worcestershire's Motor Neur-one Disease Association contact Tim Stavert on 01886 832906 / 07717 821407 or e-mail tp.stavert@btinternet.com Over the years the regatta has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charitable causes.

Fees include qualified supervision and all equipment and practice sessions are also available.