ENTRIES are being sought for this year's Great Waterside Raft Race.

A series of races will be held at Hythe Marina in aid of the RNLI on August 29. A ladies' race will be followed by a decorated raft contest and a junior event for people aged 18 years and under.

These will be followed by the main event of the morning - the fastest rafts racing over a longer course.

Race secretary Ralph Hanley said: "Rafts can be entered for more than one race, using different teams where appropriate.

"Apart from the races, decorated rafts could also win trophies for Best Presented, Most Ingenious and Most Pathetic craft.

"All these trophies are awarded on the day, but the trophy for most sponsorship is being presented later in the year at an appropriate venue.

"Above all it's a fun day out, to be enjoyed by spectators as well as participants."

Last year's event raised a record £6,500 for the RNLI and organisers are hoping that the 2004 races will prove even more successful.

Anyone wishing to enter a raft should write to Mr Hanley at Pitts Deep, Stonehills, Fawley, S045 1DU.