BUSINESSES got firmly behind the 49th annual staging of the Monmouth Raft Race ensuring organisers topped their target of 100 rafts on the River Wye.

Norman Williams, of The Rotary Club of Monmouth, which organises the annual event, said: “Businesses always come out in force to support the raft race but this year they have really done us proud. One, DHL entered teams from depots across the UK with almost 30 of their rafts taking part in the event which was a truly magnificent effort.”

Emma Saysell, chief executive of St David’s Hospice Care, who handed trophies to the winning teams, said: “We’re thrilled that so many businesses took part again this year especially those which travelled quite some distance with their rafts in tow to take part and help raise vital funds for our charity.”

The event, held on Sunday was sponsored by Mandarin Stone, of Monmouth, Basepoint, of Chepstow, and logistics firm DHL.

Organisers believe the mass turn out for the 49th staging of the raft race will mean a bumper pay out for main the main charity beneficiary St David’s Hospice Care and other local charities.