NEARLY 40 teams took part in this year's Great Gloucestershire Raft Regatta to raise cash for the Cotswold Care Hospice.

The event, at Saul Junction on the Gloucester-Sharpness canal, attracted hundreds of visitors and organisers, are hoping to raise at least £5,000.

Stroud Army Cadets came first, with a time of around four minutes, closely followed by a team of students from Downfield Sixth Form, who aptly named themselves A Levels Over Soon.

"There was just 10 seconds between them," said organiser Mike Doughty.

"Competitors either built rafts themselves or one was provided - some of them were rather fast.

"The secret is to make them long and narrow with lots of people on and it helps if they're strong."

There were also prizes for the best constructed raft, the fastest female team and the best fancy dress.

"I would like to thank all those who supported us, including British Waterways, Cotswold Canal Trust and SARA," said Mike.