CHESTER’S annual Raft Race returns later this month for its 47th year, with a playful new theme and plenty of food, drink and fun to be had.

The racers will be preparing their crafts in a ‘toybox’ theme this year, so there’ll be plenty of childhood nostalgia on show as they take to the River Dee on Sunday, June 30.

There will be 30 rafts in total, with plenty of local businesses signed up to raise funds for Young Lives Vs Cancer and North West Air Ambulance. The race’s charity partners will also have stall and representatives on site.

Just over the footbridge on The Groves, there will be event village with bars and catering provided by some of Chester’s best local businesses.

Traditional fete games and face painting will be available throughout the day as well as a grand raffle.

There will be performances from the Mersey Morris Dancers, Chester City Brass Band and musician Stephen Lockhart.

The site will open at 10am on Sunday, June 30, with Chester’s Lord Mayor sending off the first raft of the day at 10.30am.

There will be awards for:

  • People’s Choice – the public’s overall favourite.
  • Titanic Ultimate Sinker – the fastest sinking raft.
  • Fastest Hostelry – the quickest pub, restaurant or hotel on the Dee.
  • Fastest Innovation – best raft using non-traditional paddle power.

The city’s Labour candidate and former MP Samantha Dixon will also be on hand to present an award.