PADDLERS who have signed up to take part in a Dragon Boat Race for the Lord Mayor of Bradford’s Appeal dipped their oars and put in some practice at a specially-arranged session.

The Lord Mayor, Councillor Mike Gibbons, looked on as pupils at Appleton Academy in Wyke donned lifejackets and were put through their paces beneath blue skies and blazing sun at Doe Park Reservoir, Denholme yesterday.

The Dragon Boat Festival takes place on the River Aire at Roberts Park in Saltaire on Saturday, May 9.

There will be some 30 teams taking part in the colourful event and each will consist of up to 17 people - 16 paddlers and one drummer who will beat the time and a dragon boat instructor who will steer.

Cllr Mike Gibbons said: "I hope people will come along for a great fun day out for all the family, while raising money for my appeal.

Money raised will go to the appeal is going to Marie Curie Cancer Care and the Lord Mayor’s Make It Happen initiative.