A FOUR-MAN raft crew has set a stunning record over a three-mile stretch of the River Avon.

The team, captained by Liam Ireland, took just 38 minutes and 30 seconds on the course of the annual Eckington Raft Race.

Liam, who was joined by Matt Hartwell, Richard Gozling and Andy Bridges, skippered the HMS The Shires which shaved more than 12 minutes off the previous record.

"This is absolutely astounding and it is going to be extremely hard to beat," said organiser Richard Salisbury.

A total of 13 rafts entered the third running of the race and they were cheered on by a huge crowd.

The event also raised £700 for Eckington First School.

The winners of the best dressed crew were Ladies Who Launch - captainDue Williamson, Babby Whatley, Shirley Binns and Kath Bradbury.

The best novelty raft award went to Hografts which was captained by Gillian Goodlad with Jude Stracey, Nicky Ellis and Pippa Salisbury.