Wells Moat Boat Race will be back with a splash this weekend!

The last two years have seen the Bishop's Palace moat uncharacteristically quiet over the August Bank Holiday weekend, since Covid forced the cancellation of the annual event.

But this year, on Monday (August 29) the watery frolics will be back, with intrepid competitors taking to the moat on their carefully constructed crafts.

The event is being organised by the City of Wells Lions Club, who hope that it will be a real community event with the neighbouring Recreation Ground being open for picnics, and warm weather in the forecast.

There is still time to enter (just!) – with entries closing on Friday, August 26.

On the day, registration for competitors takes place between 9am and 11.30am, with the safety briefing at 11.30am.

At noon, Bishop Ruth Worsley and Mayor of Wells Stewart Cursley will judge the adult and junior fancy dress competitions, as well as the Best Raft category.

Races begin at 12.30pm, and the event closes at 4pm.

Wells Lions Club would like to thank the event sponsors:

The Bishop's Cup - Amba, Ladies Fashion

Adult Obstacle Race - Priory Dental

The Community Challenge Trophy - Harris and Harris, Solicitors 

The Lions Cup - a City of Wells Lion 

Junior races - Ellis and Co, Historic Building Restoration

Wettest Team - Priory Dental

Fancy Dress (adult) - Anhoki, Ladies fashion

Fancy Dress (junior) - Ron Thompson (Carpets) Ltd

Best Boat Design - Nub News

First Aid Cover - Chubb Bulleid, Solicitors and Charlie Bigham's

Water Safety - Bowley's Garage