After months of excitement, competitive spirit and well, not quite as much preparation as we might have hoped, the Beacon has another successful raft race entry under its belt.

Pleased as we are to be improving on our timings each year, we also like to pause as we travel along the river, to savour the moment of being part of such a wonderful event.

Now wrapping up after its 50th year, the Monmouth Raft Race is a highlight in many people’s calendar and is a wonderful chance to raise a lot of money for a well-deserving cause, St David’s Hospice Care.

It is also a great opportunity to come together as a county. Nevermind the odd bruised legs from falling eggs, or dampened egos from falls in the water, each bump, bash and splash is met with smiles and good humour. No tempers, no tantrums, and no abundance of red tape.

Graced as it has been for the past several years by wonderful weather, around 100 crews enjoyed their passage down the Wye, and the party that greeted them at the finish line in Whitebrook.Congratulations go to ‘Light it Up’ from Coleford’s C U Lighting for being the fastest raft down the river.

The event is organised annually by Monmouth Rotary Club, whose members do a wonderful job to ensure the smooth running of the day, and the safety of all taking part. I’m sure we’re not the only team very grateful for their dedication. Long may the event continue.

The Beacon would also like to thank the generosity of Monmouth Car Care and Handyman House, as well as the patience and kindness of all at Paul Jarrold Tyres who have stored our trusty raft for the past few years. Thanks go too to Hale and Co, who built us such a solid raft three years ago, that unchanged, it again delivered us safely to the finish line this year! We are also utterly indebted to the kind and dedicated work of Rob Escott, who tirelessly strove to ensure our team’s prompt arrival at the start line, and safe passage down the river thanks to his enviable technical expertise.

If you could donate to St David’s Hospice Care and sponsor the Beacon team, please pop into the office at 56 Monnow Street, as we are still collecting before the Rotary’s deadline towards the end of the month.

Victoria Hallifax

(Editor, Monmouthshire Beacon and Chepstow Beacon)