A mighty roar rang out across Manvers Lake as hundreds of spectators turned out to cheer on teams battling it out at Bluebell Wood’s long-awaited Dragon Boat Race last weekend.

Teams from across the region raced across the picturesque lake in custom-built dragon boats while crowds of spectators enjoyed a host of family friendly activities in the September sun.

After an intense paddle-powered battle through several heats, Hillfoot Steel’s team narrowly pipped  Fletchers Waste Management to the post in the nail-biting finale.

The spectacular event, organised by Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, included an array of fun games and activities, with spectators even given the chance to ride in a police car thanks to South Yorkshire Police who spent the day at the lakeside talking to the community.

Beth Cole, Events Fundraiser at Bluebell Wood, said: “It’s been a challenging 18 months for us from a fundraising perspective, with the vast majority of our events cancelled or postponed, so it was wonderful to be back out there meeting so many of our supporters in person again.

“We always look forward to our Dragon Boat and thanks to the teams who took part, all those who came along to cheer them on and our amazing volunteers, it really was a day to remember."

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part and supported the event – we couldn’t have done it without you.

“Each and every penny we raised on the day will help us to be there for children and families who sadly don’t know how long they have together.”

Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice would also like to thank Manvers Lake and Dearne Valley Trust for hosting the event, and the Rapid Relief Team for kindly catering on the day.

For those looking for a fun event to take part in, Mud Madness is also returning in November in support of Bluebell Wood.

The epic, mud-spattered obstacle course is returning to Hesley Wood Scout Camp on November 18^th and entrants are urged to book their place soon to avoid disappointment.  

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