All you need to know as Needham Lake, in Needham Market, hosts 21st annual raft race today

A splashing good time is promised in Needham Market this afternoon, as a popular annual event sets sail once again.

Returning for its 21st year, Needham Lake Raft Race is a free family day out, with the theme of ‘once upon a time’ for 2025.

And while organisers were initially concerned about the number of entries, an influx thanks to support from the community means nine rafts will compete on the water today.

“We are absolutely thrilled by the incredible community spirit that has ensured the Needham Lake Raft Race can proceed this year," said a spokesperson for the event committee.

“It's going to be a fantastic day out for everyone, combining competitive fun with vital fund-raising for some truly deserving charities. Get ready for some fantastic once upon a time-themed rafts and costumes.”

Rafts adorned with decorations and teams wearing fancy dress inspired by fairytales and classic stories will take to the water, with the line up including Goldilocks and the Three Bears, the Three Little Pigs, Alex and the Shipmunks, Clowning Around, Betty, The Barking Arms, the Mad Hatters and the Little Red Fire Engine.

The afternoon will start with judging of decorations and costumes starting at 1.30pm, before racing from 2pm.

In round one, all teams will compete in time trials before round two – the wooden spoon race – when the three slowest teams compete for the wooden spoon award.

Teams in the middle of the time trial results compete for their own winner in the middlings race, before the grand finale, when the three fastest rafts race for the overall championship title.

The awards will also include the Tracey Cadman Trophy, dedicated to the memory of a much-loved founding committee member and given to the team achieving the fastest lap overall.

Beyond the excitement of the race, some teams are fund-raising for charities including Anaphylaxis UK, MIND, Alzheimer's UK, and Young Minds – with an award for the team raising the most.

The Duck and Teapot Café will be open throught the afternoon and the Smokehouse School Bus will offer a hot food menu. Lakeside, there will be a coffee van, doughnut van and ice cream stalls.

Car parking is on the boot fair field, suggested donation £1.