One of the teams in today's dragon boat race event, in aid of the Lord Mayor's Appeal, made a bigger splash than intended when the boat capsized.

A rescue craft was quickly on the scene to ensure the 16-strong crew was safe after their boat capsized as they tried to avoid overhanging branches.

The team suffered no more than a drenching and were still all smiles after the drama, which occurred in the first race and only added to the occasion.

Thousands of people, blessed by hot sunshine, turned up at Roberts Park, Saltaire, to watch the annual Bradford Lord Mayor's Appeal Dragon Boat Festival, which aims to raise money for the Bradford Hospitals Children's Charity and the Spread a Smile Appeal.

The event was launched by the Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Joanne Dodds, and 44 teams took part in a series of races along a 175-metre course the River Aire.

The crews included police, Army and Navy teams, hospital staff, several Bradford Council departments and even Emmerdale stars Chris Chittell and John Middleton.

Each race was between three boats, with knockout stages and the overall winner was Red Phoenix from West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service.

Among the entries was a team from the Bradford Barracudas, one of 26 teams which competes in a national dragon boat racing league.

Team captain Tracey-Marie Dickenson, who will represent Team GB at the European Championships this summer, said: "I had never sat in a boat until this event last year. I was asked to get a crew together, now I am representing Team GB. It was a dream and we have made it happen."

The Barracudas were followed home in their race by a game team from West Yorkshire Police, which included senior Bradford officers and support staff.

A soaked and tired Chief Superintendent Simon Atkin, Divisional Commander for the Bradford District, said: "I thought the opposition must have had an outboard motor, I didn't know they were professionals!

"It has been a fantastic experience and an amazing event."

Elsewhere in the park was a host of entertainment for the many families who turned up, including live performances from local bands, face painting and children's play equipment.

Cllr Dodds said: "It has been beyond all expectations. The organisers and those taking part have certainly delivered. There are thousands of people here and it will bring in a lot of money for really good causes."