A RAFT racing festival could become an annual event following a successful start to life.
Winsford Water Festival made a triumphant debut last weekend, treating visitors to racing, live music and a variety of family-friendly activities.
The mayor of Winsford, Cllr Wayne Fletcher, is already looking ahead to 2025, with high hopes this event could become a cornerstone of the town’s events calendar.
He said: “This was a wonderful family event that truly brought our community together. It was incredible to see the enthusiasm and participation of our residents.
“The success of this inaugural water festival is a testament to the spirit and unity of Winsford, and we are excited to build on this foundation in future years.”
Cllrr Fletcher added: “The positive feedback from attendees has been overwhelming, with many already looking forward to next year’s event.
“Winsford Town Council is committed to making the water festival an annual tradition, promising even more exciting activities and attractions in the years to come.”
The centrepiece of the water festival was the raft-building competition.
Teams of all ages and abilities were tasked with creating rafts from empty plastic drums, wooden pallets and rope before racing them down the Weaver.
The adult race was won by Team Pugwash from Macclesfield-based charity Independent Support Limited.
The Meadowbank Pirates and the Pensioner Pirates completed the podium, earning the silver and bronze medals respectively.
There was also a junior race which saw the girl's team best the boys.
Alongside the racing, festivalgoers could enjoy face painting, games, craft stalls, food and drink vendors and live music from Lee Mackenzie and Mutt ‘n’ Jeff.
“The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of the organizers, vendors, and participants,” said councillor Fletcher.
“Winsford Town Council extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone involved for their contributions and support.”
Andrew Cooper, the MP for Mid Cheshire, added: “The Winsford Water Festival made a splash as teams competed to build the quickest raft and paddle their way across the marina, and try not to fall in!
“It was another great event down by the marina basin and a big thank you to the team at Winsford Town Council for working so hard to make it a success.”
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