Wells Moat Boat Race will return on Bank Holiday Monday, bringing raft racing, music, stalls and family entertainment to the city.

The annual event takes place on Monday, 31 August, with racing on the Bishop's Palace moat and activities at Wells Recreation Ground. Organiser publicity says the fun day will run from 10 am until 4 pm, with entry free.

The Grand Parade will begin at 11 am, before teams take to the water for the racing. The Wells Moat Boat Race is held each year on the Bishop's Palace moat with the permission of the Bishop of Bath and Wells.

The race programme includes several different categories for adult and junior crews. These include the Bishop's Cup, Rescue Race, obstacle races and junior challenges, alongside prizes for raft design and fancy dress.

The Rescue Race sees four team members row along the moat before collecting two additional crew members and returning to the finish. Junior competitors aged between 13 and 17 can also take part in dedicated sprint and backwards races, with flotation aids required for junior crews.

Away from the water, entertainment will return to the Recreation Ground throughout the day. Organisers say there will be games, stalls and activities, as well as a programme of musical acts on the bandstand.

Wells Rotary Club is also looking for volunteers to help steward the event. Four stewards are needed, with shifts available from 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm and 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm.

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Wells Rotary Club for further details. Team entries for the racing itself have now closed.

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The Wells Moat Boat Race takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, 31 August, with the Grand Parade beginning at 11 am and free entertainment at Wells Recreation Ground.

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