ROTARY clubs across the North East are hoping that a fiery fund raising initiative will be a roaring success.
This September the region will be hosting a major Dragon Boat Race and teams are now being sought to take part in what promises to be an exciting challenge.
The event on September 5, which is taking place at Hetton Lyons County Park, Hetton-le-Hole, will challenge teams of 20 to beat the clock for the chance to compete in a final race and win a number of prizes, along with raising money for their chosen charity.
Community groups, work colleagues and friends are being asked to join forces and enter a team, at a cost of £400 per boat. Proceeds from the event will be split between The Great North Air Ambulance and good causes picked by the teams themselves.
The event will run from 9am until 4.30pm and along with the day of racing, a whole host of additional entertainment is planned, to make it a day out for everyone.
“This is the first time we’ve held the Dragon Boat Challenge and it should be a great day,” said Fiona Swan, Chair of the Dragon Boat Organising Group.
“The day is not only going to be a lot of fun for everyone who wants to watch but also a good way for community groups and colleagues to enjoy a team activity with a difference.
“It’s a great opportunity for people to support a charity that is important to them and have a lot of fun at the same time.”
The new charity event is just one of the initiatives organised by Rotary North East which works to support people in need across the region.
Teams wishing to take part in the event must submit their entry form and a deposit of £100 by May 29, in order to secure their place. The full balance must be paid by July 6.
For more information about the Dragon Boat Challenge visit www.dragonboat.co.uk or contact Peter Calvert via peter.calvert3@ntlworld.com or by ringing 0191 528 5446.