TEAMS are being urged to start building their crafts for the annual West Bay raft race in aid of the RNLI.

Teams from businesses, pubs and groups of friends are set to enter the fancy dressed-themed contest which takes place on the River Brit on July 26.

Organisers from Bridport and District RNLI said last year’s extravaganza raised £3,000.

Committee member Alan Jack-son said: “In the past we’ve had 20-25 rafts with a maximum of six people per raft. “It’s a great evening of fun.”

Teams muster on the harbourside with their rafts before taking the plunge one by one.

They line up and battle their way up to a buoy before turning back to the finish line.

Last year’s themes included the space shuttle, The Apprentice, Where’s Wally and pirates.

There are prizes for winners and best dressed among the categories.

The evening finishes with music provided by The George.

Last year’s honours was taken by a team of friends with their Milly the Unicorn raft.