Raft race returns in front of 'fantastic' crowd

One raft had a medieval theme

A submarine-themed raft won first prize at an annual Boxing Day race in Derbyshire in front of a "fantastic" turnout.

The event was held on Thursday in Matlock Bath, with more than 100 rafters taking part across 21 custom-built vessels over a 3.5-mile (5.6km) stretch.

Dating back to 1961, the race raises money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

Last year's edition was cancelled due to high river levels but the comeback event was described as "such a success" by committee secretary Terry Radford.

The Grinches were one of the runners up at the event

He said: "Turnout for this year's Matlock Raft Event in aid of RNLI was fantastic, with 21 rafts and 117 enthusiastic rafters joining the fun."

First prize went to the destroyer/submarine, with the Grinches and Santa's naughty elves finishing as runners up in second and third respectively.

Mr Radford added: "We also gave a special recognition prize to the Coca-Cola-themed raft for their valiant effort, even though they just missed the podium."

A Coca-Cola themed raft won a special recognition prize

He confirmed donations were currently being counted and the total will be announced on Thursday evening.

A total of 21 rafts took part in the race

"A huge thank you to all our rafters, spectators, and sponsors for making the event such a success - we can't wait to see everyone again next year," added Mr Radford.

A destroyer-themed raft was the winner of the race