Mudeford Lifeboat Funday raft race raises thousands for local RNLI

THOUSANDS of people gathered at Mudeford Quay over the weekend for the return of the RNLI's raft race.

Seven teams in silly costumes took to the water on homemade rafts to raise thousands of pounds for the lifesaving service.

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This was the first time in four years the event went ahead - bad weather put paid to it in 2019 and after that the pandemic forced its cancellation.

Mudeford RNLI chairman Kim Skinner said the total amount of cash raised at this year's race is still being counted, but he estimates it will be in the region of between £8,000 and £10,000.

"The whole event went off very well, considering we haven't run it for four years," said Kim.

"We were very lucky with the weather - we had lots of sunshine and it was lovely out on the water.

"We've also raised a lot of money for the RNLI, which is what it's all about.

"The team who helped put the event on did a remarkable job; it was a long day for everyone but well worth it."

Kim said next year's raft race will be even bigger and better after raffle tickets and ducks for the duck race sold out earlier than anticipated.

"For us, this year was all about getting back to what the Funday should be: a community event that brings people together and raises money for the lifeboat. I think we've done really well.

"That being said we're always looking for more volunteers to join our committee, as our numbers have fallen slightly since the pandemic.

"It's a few days of work per month but it's very rewarding."

Kim said anyone interested in volunteering for the RNLI's fundraising committee should contact them on Facebook or via their website

rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/mudeford-lifeboat-station