Crews from ABP’s ports of Lowestoft and Ipswich took part in this year’s East Anglia Dragon Boat Festival to raise funds for the East Coast Hospice.

Twenty crews from across the region joined the fun at Oulton Broad to raise more than £6,000 for the charity, which supports people with life-limiting illnesses.

Paul Brooks, ABP port manager, said: “It was a really great day and it was nice to see so many smiling faces and raise money for a good cause. This is the second year in a row we are taking part in this event and it has been a great experience.

“We are committed to being good neighbours in the communities surrounding our ports and support a wide range of charities including Rudham Ward and East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).”

Medals and trophies were awarded to the top three crews, mixed crew, best dressed crew and charity champions.

Carol Lester, director of Gable Events, which organised the festival, said: “It was a great day, we had some excellent feedback from the crews participating in the races and it was pleasing how many local people came down to cheer on the teams and take part in the activities in Nicholas Everitt Park.

“The sun came out in the afternoon and the crowds were able to enjoy a flypast by a Battle of Britain spitfire and some superb dance performances put on by the students from Venue of Performing Arts.

“The funds raised by the crews will be very welcome to help support East Coast Hospice in their aim to build the first inpatient hospice unit for the Waveney and Great Yarmouth area.”

As well as the racing, teams and supporters enjoyed a funfair, food stalls and a bar, along with the chance to find out more about East Coast Hospice and its aim to provide an independent hospice serving the Waveney and Yarmouth area.

Jeff Wood, ECH community fundraiser, said: “The festival is a wonderful day for colleagues to get together, cheered on by their families and friends. We really appreciate the continuing support of the community and local companies to help us ‘Raise the Roof’ of Margaret Chadd house.”