PADDLE power was put to the ultimate test yesterday during the annual raft race at Mudeford RNLI Fun Day.

Thousands turned out on the Quay to cheer on the crews of 14 vessels which competed for the honours with a team from Christchurch company Reid Steel emerging victorious.

Two local watering-holes – the Ship in Distress at Stanpit and the Galleon at Highcliffe – were both on course to win the best-looking raft title.

But an impressive lobster raft, which took regulars and staff at the Ship in Distress six weeks to build, narrowly secured the coveted title with landlady Maggie Wheeler among those paddling for glory.

Fun day committee chairman Kim Skinner told the Daily Echo: “It was a great family day-out, with about 15,000 people joining in the fun.

The weather conditions were perfect and we are hoping to have raised between £18,000 and £20,000, which is a terrific effort.”

Following displays from the Mudeford Lifeboat and HM Coastguard helicopter, there was a duck race, auctions and grand prize raffle.

Stalls and side shows, a barbecue, children’s games and funfair rides added to the party atmosphere.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the upkeep and continuation of the much-needed Mudeford lifeboat station.