THE Row 4A Reason five-mile race around Northey Island from Heybridge Basin is back.

A signed bat from England cricket legend Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff is up for grabs in a charity auction.

To date, the rowing race has meant local and national charities have benefited to the tune of more than £100,000. For the 10th anniversary this year, an emergency services team and charity team events have been added to the line up on Saturday.

Rowing classes include singles, doubles, groups, canoes and kayaks, with several teams expected in fancy dress.

Onshore events include charity, craft and home-made goods stalls.

The event starts at 11am, with the races starting at 1pm.

Organiser Tina Cottis said: “We are up on entries this year so far.

“We are hoping the RNLI team, St George’s Church team, Essex Air Ambulance and Little Havens Children’s Hospice teams turn up.”

To find out more, call 01621 841976 or visit row4areason.org