Several ships sailed into trouble yesterday. But their owners didn't mind - they were only paper boats competing in the annual Goldhanger paper boat race in aid of Essex Air Ambulance.

Water lot of fun - paper boat race participants with their entries

Organiser and last year's winner, Rick Anstey, said a westerly wind played havoc with some of the mini vessels and not one single paper boat belonging to the local cadets managed to cross Goldhanger creek.

The race began with 30 paper boats and finished after about 20 minutes when the boat belonging to Goldhanger Women's Institute sailed in first.

Mr Anstey said: "We choose to raise money for Essex Air Ambulance because I think it is the most worthwhile cause around, who knows when someone might need it."

It is hoped the race will have raised in excess of £100 from the sponsorship of the boats.

Published Tuesday, August 31, 2004

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