The mud race may be off but Maldon Little Ship Club's annual sponsored row for the RNLI is taking place on Boxing Day.

The event attracts hundreds of spectators and competitors and over the past five years has raised more than £38,000 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

The event, which is on December 26, starts at 2pm from the Hythe Quay.

"It's a fun event with a serious aim to raise funds for the lifeboats," explains publicity officer, Janice Frost.

She said: "Last year we raised over £9,000 in sponsorship money. It is open to any competitors and rowers are encouraged to come in fancy dress.

"It's any theme - last year people may remember we had lilac fairies and Wizard of Oz characters."

This year organisers are hoping to get not only rowers but dinghies,skiffs and canoes taking part.

Janice said: "We usually have about 40 or 50 boats, and we are going to have a lifeboat crew competing this year.

"We like to get a big crowd and they can either watch on the Quay or on the Promenade."

The 5km race will set off from the Quay down to the end of the Prom and back and takes about 40 minutes.

Anyone who would like an entry form can contact Mike McCarthy on 01277 623833.

Maldon's annual mud race due to be held in January has been cancelled. A date for later in the year is under discussion.

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