Annual Great Waterside Raft Race at Hythe marina raises ‘record’ amount for RNLI Hythe and Calshot

HUNDREDS of spectators turned out to cheer on competitors in an annual raft race, helping to raise a record amount for the RNLI.

The 36th Great Waterside Raft Race – which took place on Sunday at Hythe marina – is organised by RNLI Hythe and Calshot.

This year’s event, sponsored by TMT Legal Services LLP, saw 11 rafts taking part – slightly fewer than in 2023. Alongside the races, other attractions included stalls, a funfair, refreshments and a raffle.

Team Ebenezers won in the formula one category, the ladies race and the pub race, as well as taking home the Ashmore Cup for best overall effort.

The Grape Escape team took first place in the decorated category, while ChampionX won the big race and the Herald trophy as top fundraisers. Most ingenious raft went to Emma’s Hair Raisers, while best presented went to HMS Piggy Wiggy.

The kayak race winners were Chris Jacobs and Natasha Jessop.

Event spokesperson Dan Poole told the A&T: “Although we had only 11 rafts competing this year, there were hundreds of spectators lining the marina, pier and Prospect Place park.

“Commentary was once again superbly covered by John McGuinn, and PM Diving Services kindly provided the safety boat service. Thanks also to John Longland for the engraving of the trophies, St John’s Ambulance for the first aid tent and, finally, a big thank you to Hythe Marina Village for providing the excellent venue, help and assistance.

“The RNLI Calshot Lifeboat crew were also on hand to help throughout.”

He added: “It will be a few days before everything is collected and counted, but it looks to be a record year for funds raised.

“The branch would like to take this opportunity to thank sponsors, volunteers and competitors for all their hard work and kind support, not forgetting the many spectators for their continued generosity.”

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