GUSTY conditions tested dragon boaters as they battled each other in aid of good causes.

The river Avon at Pershore was the scene for what organisers called an “entertaining and colourful display” of competition on Sunday.

The paddling was not just about competition, however, with cash also raised for the Ben Gannon Appeal and the British Heart Foundation.

All teams showed improvement over the course of the day – with many novice crewmen and women entering for the first time.

Alan Parfrey, coach and paddler of the GB senior open dragon boat team, was impressed by the standard, especially when he considered some were novice crews.

The Mayor of Pershore Councillor John Grantham presented the trophies to very loud cheering.

Last year’s winners Royal Rogues (Worcestershire Royal Hospital) won the grand final and received the Ian Aston Trophy, which was donated as a tribute to a keen paddler who sadly died last year. The runners up, only half a second behind, were Angels of Fire. In third place, winning the cup for the minor final were NFA (St Paul’s Hostel and YMCA) and Bankers in a Boat, of Barclays Bank, who came fourth.

Trophies were presented to Local Vampires (Hereford and Worcester Blood Collection Mobile Team) for the best fancy dress, and to Adam Houghton for being at the helm and steering the most teams to glory.

Pershore Phoenix Dragon Boat Club competes with other teams nationally and practises throughout the year on Sunday mornings and on Wednesday evenings in summertime.

New members of all ages and abilities are welcome either to race in the national league or just to paddle for fun.

For more details contact Keith Burton at keithburton42@gmail. com or 01905 356628, or call 07899898404.