Overwater RNLI Festival a Huge Success

Hot on the heels of last year's very successful Safety Afloat Day, Overwater Marina pulled out all the stops for the two-day Audlem RNLI Festival held over the first weekend of June.

There was much to see and do and it was a most enjoyable and entertaining event, with 2,000 people who helped to raise over £2,200 for this very worthwhile service.

One of the most enjoyable activities was Sunday's raft race. Audlem used to hold an annual raft race over 25 years ago and it is fantastic to see that this has been brought back to life in the marina. Seven teams designed and decorated their hand-made rafts and competition was fierce.

PRG Trailer's team won the highly fought for trophy. However, it was Audlem Fire Station's crew who won 'best dressed raft' for their fantastic Hawaii themed "Cheshire Fire-O" raft, complete with inflatable palm tree, grass skirts and colourful Lei garlands!

The other teams taking part in the fun included Overwater Narrowboat Services "Morris Dancers", Cheshire Police's "Canal Cops", Audlem Football Club and the Audlem Scouts.

As well as pony rides, dog show, agility training and falconry displays, there were many displays including Cheshire Search & Rescue and the Cheshire Police and stall holders selling crafts and refreshments as well as the RNLI bar.

The Saturday night entertainment was first rate with the fantastic 22 piece Wychcraft Big Swing Band, the Josh Walker Band and Steven Miller performing. On Sunday afternoon the Rode Heath Brass Band entertained alongside experts talking about all manner of boating related issues. The sumptuous food for the weekend was laid on by the Adderley Farm Shop.

Rodney Cottrell (RNLI) said: "I am really proud of the enthusiasm, time and effort that so many people put into making the event a fantastic success and we are committed to making this an annual event".

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