Teams from across the South West are preparing to take part in the popular Taunton Dragon Boat Festival in aid of Headway Somerset, which this year is supported by local accountants Milsted Langdon.

Now in its fifth year, the annual event sees 20 fearsome dragon boats set of down the River Tone, each manned with teams drawn from local businesses, clubs, organisations and groups of friends.

This year’s event on Sunday 11 June 2017 will kick off early in the morning with registration, followed by a series of races from 10am until 3.30pm.

Teams are encouraged to don costumes as they take part, as there are medals for the teams in first, second and third place and also best fancy dress entry, as well as the wooden paddle award for the team with the slowest time.

Money raised from the event will go to Headway Somerset, which is an independent charity that supports adults with acquired brain injuries, their families and carers.

Steve Horton, Financial Services Partner at Milsted Langdon, said:  “This event has become a real highlight in the local calendar and we are absolutely delighted to be offering our support to this event.

“The Dragon Boat Festival offers a great day out for both participants and spectators and will hopefully raise plenty of money for this fantastic cause.”

Those who choose to visit the races will also be treated to a variety of food and drink stalls for a small fee which will support the charity, including a hog roast, pancakes and ice creams.

Hilary Dicks, Chief executive of Headway Somerset, said: “We are grateful to both Milsted Langdon and Clarke Willmott who are joint sponsors of this year’s event.  We are expecting a very competitive day and hope that people will come along and support the event.”

Steve Horton, Financial Services Partner at Milsted Langdon