Dragon boat teams make a splash in bid to raise thousands for hospice

The annual event is now in its sixth year and saw 300 people take to the water to raise cash
for Martin House Children’s Hospice in Boston Spa, near Wetherby.

Dozens of crews made up of staff from Yorkshire businesses and organisations raced the 30ft, brightly painted Chinese boats over a 200 metre course on Waterloo Lake with the aim of raising £30,000 for the charity.

Trophies were presented by the hospice and sponsors First to
the winning teams and to
the team that raised the most money.

Caroline Hudson, from Martin House, said: “We are delighted that so many local companies and organisations are supporting this event and through their generosity we hope to raise over £30,000.”

Entrance to the dragon boat race was free to spectators, with races taking place every 10 to 15 minutes.

Local MP Stuart Andrew also took part in the event.

The dragon boat race has raised more than £200,000 for Martin House over the last five years.

Martin House Children’s Hospice first opened its doors in 1987 and was only the second children’s hospice in the UK.

The hospice provides family-led care for children with life-threatening and life-limiting illnesses.

Each year the hospice provides care for around 340 children and bereavement support is also offered to families.

There is no cost to any of the families using the services but
it costs over £4.9m a year to
run.