THE beat of drums and sound of paddles splashing in the water -- it could only mean one thing.

The Worcester South Rotary Club Dragon Boat Festival was back.

Yesterday hundreds of people gathered at the River Severn between the railway bridge and Worcester Bridge for the fourth annual event, which saw 22 teams battling it out.

As well as the fun on the river there was a fun fair and a display of classic cars.

The festival raises money for a number of charities, this year all city-based.

David Scott, festival organiser, said: "It looks like the money raised is going to be close to last year's, which was about £13,000. It is a fantastic amount when you consider that it's just from one day.

"The organising takes about a year, but it is well worth it. Everybody who takes part or comes along really enjoys it."

Mike Jeeves, president of the Worcester South Rotary Club, said: "The Dragon Boat Festival is now part of the festival scene."

The boat race was eventually won by the Suckley Ruffnecks. Camp Knights were second and MAPP Graphic Solutions came in third place.