WORCESTER Dragon Boat Racing Club stages its 12th annual Race the Dragon Regatta on Sunday.

Thornton House Special School in Worcester will be the chief beneficiary from this year's colourful spectacle.

Racing takes place on the River Severn behind the racecourse grandstand and Worcester Rowing Club from 9.30am-5pm.

A total of 20 crews representing local companies and clubs hope to paddle their way to glory in the ultimate team sport with its unique combination of timing, technique and teamwork.

The event has raised over £20,000 for national and local good causes over the past 11 years and this year promises to be just as successful.

The selection of Thornton House continues the club policy of supporting local youth causes after significant donations to Manor Park and Rosehill special schools in previous years.

Racing will take place between the railway bridge and the grandstand with opening heats to separate crews into cup and plate competitions.

The more experienced crews compete for the Lea & Perrins trophy while novice crews compete for the Steve Yau plate, both competitions culminating in grand finals at around 4.30pm.

Inter-company rivalry will be the order of the day for crews representing QinetiQ in Malvern as they battle for honours as the highest placed crew from that company.

Spectators will also have the chance to see four Worcester paddlers in action with the Great Britain under 18 squad as they gain race practice as part of their preparation for the forthcoming European Championships in Poland.

Another crew to look out for will be the Sleepy Dragons women's crew from Colenorton and British Airways who have promised to paddle in nightwear, including their male helm!

Refreshments will be available throughout the day with free parking on the centre car park of the racecourse.

For more information contact event coordinator Nigel Leigh on 01905-429257.