Raft race, Porthleven raises around £500 for village light fund

Porthleven's annual Raft Race took place on Sunday afternoon, drawing a large number of people to watch the eight rafts take part.

It was originally meant to be nine rafts but sadly one didn't quite make the cut as it fell apart before the start of the race, which caused some amusement to those watching.

A traffic jam coming out of the inner harbour Picture: James Kitto

The Raft Race was one of the events that took place over the start of Porthleven Arts Festival week, which also featured musical performances, mermaids, and exhibitions from artists.

The theme of this year's raft race was Jubilee/Royal, which was chosen before the death of the Queen, but those who took part remained respectful to her late Majesty.

A water-based royal carriage Picture: James Kitto

Many decided to wear Union Jack clothing, including one raft with six men wearing Union Jack shirts and colourful tutus. Other rafts included a Viking raft and a London bus theme – while one decided to interpret the theme a little differently. The team in question decided to create a raft depicting the well known band Queen, which featured a large arm chair, a Freddie Mercury lookalike wearing a crown and a cape, and a Brian May lookalike with a guitar.

A London bus themed raft with another behind Picture: James Kitto

Ultimately the Dawson boys and friends, aboard their raft King's Ring, were victorious in the race.

Approximately £500 was raised at the raft race, which will now go towards the Porthleven Village Lights fund.

One raft gets a sinking feeling Picture: James Kitto