THOUSANDS of people flocked to Portishead’s Lake Grounds for the annual raft race on Sunday.

The event was bigger and better than ever with 30 rafts taking part, barbecues, sideshows, stalls and live music on a purpose built stage.

Crowds gathered to watch enthusiasts take to the water in their home made crafts to battle it out in some of the fastest races the event has seen.

BBC weather girl Jemma Cooper provided commentary throughout the afternoon and the sunshine topped-off the action-packed family day.

There was fun and laughter for both sailors and spectators, as some rafts stormed ahead, while others limped past the finishing post with participants swimming in, towing their vessel behind them. The Top Gear raft was the overall winner, while the Hammer Lidl House of Horrors picked up the cup for most sponsorship.

Organisers say they expect the race to have raised more than �10,000, which will be given to the Portishead Lifeboat Trust and other local charities.