THE thunder of hundreds of dragon boat racers will be heard on the River Severn this summer.

The Rotary Club of Worcester South is hoping the Worcester Dragon Boat Festival will raise thousands of pounds for charity, as well as a good team-building event.

But before the boats can hit the water they need 30 sponsors - one for each boat - to donate £300 each.

"We've already had a lot of interest from Rotarians wanting to get different companies involved," said Rotary member Ted Smith, who is organising the event.

"Everyone wants the booking forms so they can compete against each other.

"We're not ruling anyone out for this. It doesn't matter how big your business is. My own engineering consultancy business is going to enter, even though there's only three of us. I don't think I'll be paddling but I might do the drumming!"

The Rotary Club hopes to raise thousands of pounds for St Richard's Hospice and Acorns Children's Hospice Trust as well as the Rotary Charities.

On top of the boat sponsors each team member will be asked to raise £50.

The boats are 30ft long and can hold 10 crew. Each team is guaranteed three races and there will be live commentary throughout the event, which is set to take place on Sunday, July 13.

"We're aiming for 30 boats to take part in the festival," said Mr Smith.

"It's open to any business or group who can get 10 people together. Dragon boat racing is a great way of team building and it's also going to be a fun day.

"We've had 14 interested parties so far."

The Rotary Club of Worcester South has already secured the use of facilities at Worcester Rowing Club and the Grandstand at Worcester racecourse.

Anyone interested in taking part can call Ted Smith on 01886 888010 or Simon Hyslop on 01905 22814.