Wells Moat Boat Race organisers are appealing for local charities and community groups to take part in this year's bank holiday event.

The race, held at the Bishop's Palace moat, has been saved by a group of dedicated volunteers with support from City of Wells Lions and Wells City Council.

Now organisers want to bring back the fete side of the day.

Local charities and organisations are being invited to run stalls in the bandstand area on Monday, 31 August 2026.

The stalls will run from 10 am to 4 pm.

Organisers say the aim is to give local groups a chance to raise their profile in the Wells community and fundraise at the same time.

They are particularly keen to hear from groups that can offer an interactive game, experience or challenge for families.

There are also hopes to have live music on the bandstand throughout the day.

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Stalls are being offered free of charge.

Participants will need to bring their own equipment, and no power will be available on the day.

Organisers said that, if groups have a successful day, a donation towards the cost of running the event would be appreciated.

Anyone interested in taking a stall should email [email protected].

The Wells Moat Boat Race is a long-running bank holiday tradition in the city, drawing families and spectators to one of Wells' best-known settings.

This year's event will now go ahead thanks to volunteer support, with organisers hoping the revived fete will add another reason for people to come along.

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