DRAGONS were spotted in Pangbourne on Saturday, but thankfully these weren’t fire-breathing ones.
Pangbourne Rotary Club held its annual dragon boat racing on the River Thames and collected more than £3,500 for charities in the process.
Nine crews battled it out over 20 races, taking on the 252m course that started and finished in Pangbourne Meadows, as part of the village’s annual fete.
And there was a photo finish for the grand final.
A team from St Matthew’s Church, The Rank Outsiders, just pipped Oar and Gas from the Wood Group.
Brian Davies, President of Pangbourne Rotary, said: “Everyone was a winner, including the nine crews, the public who came along and supported the event, Autism Berkshire and other local charities who will benefit to the tune of over £3,500, and the group of over 20 volunteers – Pangbourne Rotarians, family and friends – who, although exhausted, felt proud of what they had achieved.”
He also said the Rotary Club wanted to thank Purley Park Trust who sponsored the event, P.R. Motors who sponsored the Safety Boat and Pro-Tar Surfacing and Woodborough Dental practice who each sponsored a Dragon Boat.
“The vessels were provided by Henley Dragons, who, as usual, did a magnificent job in running the races,” Mr Davies added.
“Roar on next year.”
The group welcomes new members. For more details, email: membership@pangbournerotary.org.uk
