THIS summer, the usually peaceful and gently flowing River Weaver will be transformed into a 'theatre of war' as the ever-popular dragon boat race returns in 2023.

Tribal rivalries are the order of the day as teams of individuals, business and charities compete to raise thousands for charity.

Entries have now opened for the dragon boat race, which forms part of the Northwich River Festival, taking place on July 15.

Organised by the Rotary in Northwich, the fun-filled event also features a duck race and a great range of other family fun activities.

Rotary in Northwich spokesman Peter Holland said: "Rotary in Northwich are again proud of holding this annual event for the enjoyment of visitors, taking full advantage of the town’s rivers with dragon boat racing, entertainment, stalls and lots of delicious food and drink.

”The day will end with our fantastic duck race down the River Dane. We love delivering this event, with all funds raised will be going to local charities."

Northwich Guardian: The start of the duck race on the River DaneThe start of the duck race on the River Dane (Image: Rotary in Northwich)

For the dragon boat race, if you can get a team of 10 paddlers together - plus a drummer - who can all confidently swim 50 metres, then it is a great way build camaraderie, have some fun, and get fitter.

Also officially launched is the duck race, which will see around 2,000 ducks set free off the Victoria Bridge in Chesterway and sent downstream on the River Dane to the finish line at the Dane Bridge, by CRS Consultants.

The duck tickets are now available online northwichriverfestival.org.uk/ and also available to purchase (cash only) at Wildwood – Northwich.

The River Festival, in its current form, has been running since 2017 and has grown to become one of the premier events in Northwich’s calendar, attracting tens of thousands of visitors.

Northwich Guardian: The duck race has been officially been launchedThe duck race has been officially been launched (Image: Rotary in Northwich)

Entry for the dragon boat race closes on Thursda, June 15, when the full balance of entry fees is due. 

For more information, and to enter a dragon boat team, please visit the Northwich River Festival website.