FEROCIOUS competition will be heating up Weymouth Bay as an annual race returns next month.

Entries are now open for the Charity Dragon Boat Challenge which sees fearsome competitors battle it out at Weymouth Beach. 

The event, organised by Melcombe Regis Rotary Club, is now in its twentieth year and will return to the town on Sunday, August 27.

Event Organiser and Speaker Secretary at Melcombe Regis Rotary Club Bob Parkes said: “It’s a really great, enjoyable day and raises funds for good causes at the same time.”

Entrants can choose to raise funds for charities of their choice and entry fees and donations made on the day will be allocated to local charities supported by the Rotary Club.

Mr Parkes said the club hoped to receive more entrants than ever and encouraged members of the public to get involved and have a huge amount of fun.

“If they’ve done it before they will know just how fun it is,” he said.

Teams of 12 to 16 rowers are invited to participate in the action-packed event that draws hundreds of spectators to the bay every year.

Each team will race a minimum of three times with the fastest six heading into the semi-finals and the top three going head-to-head in the finals.

Mr Parkes said that PGL Osmington Bay had been a fantastic support to the challenge and would once again be providing the menacing dragon adorned boats.

To create even more of a spectacle, crews are invited to come in fancy dress and, along with their family and friends, enjoy the thrills and spills of the races and entertainment on the beach.

Dragon Boat Challenge entry costs £200 per team, but an early bird rate of £180 is available until the end of July.

Those teams short of members can contact the organisers who will assist in arranging teams to join up. Single entrants are also welcome with a £20 minimum suggested donation.

Entries close on Friday, August 18.

To enter a team and for further details contact Bob Parkes on 07771 998 077 or email ebobparkes@gmail.com