Deepings Raft Race confirm kids TV theme for 2024 race - a fundraiser for Little Miracles, Deepings Community Library and Deepings Community Leisure Centre Project

Teams are being asked to take to the water for a popular annual town race to help three community causes this summer.

Organisers of the Deepings Raft Race are inviting entries for this year’s race, from Deeping St James to Market Deeping, on Sunday, August 4, when the theme will be children’s television.

Rafters traditionally race in fancy dress and come up with ingenious designs for their craft to fit with that year’s theme.

With this year’s flotilla covering programmes both past and present, there is a huge range from which to choose, from classic cartoons to modern favourites.

Last year, organisers said the event may not run in 2024 after a number of long-serving volunteers stepped aside, but a successful recruitment drive helped to secure it.

"We're thrilled to once again hold the Deepings Raft Race," said Kevin Barber, chairman of the race committee.

"This event is a highlight of the summer calendar, bringing our community together for a day of fun and friendly competition while supporting worthy causes."

This year’s proceeds will go to Little Miracles, the Deepings Community Leisure Centre Project and Deepings Community Library.

Louise Evans, head of income generation for Little Miracles said: “The money that is raised will help local families of children with additional needs, disabilities and life-limiting conditions enjoy activities and make memories this summer that they might not normally feel confident attending or be able to afford.

“Little Miracles relies almost entirely on voluntary donations and we couldn’t be the charity we are without the support of local organisations.”

Andy Pelling, volunteer on the Deepings Community Leisure Centre Project committee, said the leisure centre would ‘benefit tens of thousands’.

“The project needs a lot of funds so every amount raised will help,” he said.

“We have made a lot of progress but there are still a few hurdles to cross.”

Judy Stevens, chairperson of the Friends of Deeping Library, said: “The Deepings Raft Race is a great event in the Deepings’ summer calendar of events and the library is delighted to be benefitting this year.

“We are a community-run library offering books, computers, advice and activities for all ages.”

For more information, and to enter a team, visit www.deepingsraftrace.co.uk or follow them at www.facebook.com/thedeepingsraftrace

The event has attracted a host of new sponsors to help keep the event afloat - JG Waste Solutions, Beeby’s, Will Hart Plumbing and Heating, The Ruddy Duck, The Vine, Blind Tiger, Thirsty Giraffe, Porcelain Store, FloVolt, Emma Jayne Photography, Victoria Knox Hair Design, The Little Sewing Shop and Notty’s.

They join returning sponsors Boundary Fish Bar, Millfields Autoparts, Taylors Amusements, Garford Farm Machinery, Hegarty & Co, Moore Thompson, Linfords, Double & Megson, Shotbowl, The Bell, S & J Windows, Pro Parts, Baxter & King and Hollis Auto Tech, Deeping St James Parish Council, Market Deeping Town Council, Iron Horse Ranch, The Waterton Arms and SS1 Scaffolding.

Organisers also thanked the Deepings Rugby Club and Deepings Round Table for their support in putting on the event.