PEOPLE in their thousands have descended on Roberts Park in Saltaire today for the 2017 Bradford Dragonboat Festival.

Although the sun didn't quite make it for the first races, spectators certainly have as more than 40 teams from across Yorkshire, including one from the Telegraph & Argus, took to the River Aire to battle it out in the scond day of the three-day festival.

The racing on the water is taking place against a backdrop of entertainment in the park with live music, magic shows, an Army infltable assault course, a climbing wall and Zumba classes among the attractions.

A team from Bradford-based Dreams project, which runs supported accommodation for care leavers in the city, was competing for the second year.

Project director Celiyah Russell said they were having a fantastic time.

"We have got our care leavers, staff, family and friends all here today," she said.

"We're having a great family day out, just mingling and enjoying ourselves.

"It's not about winning its just taken part that's important. It's vibey, lovely and family-orientated.

"It's a day Bradford should be very proud off."

Bradford Council put out an all-women's team with chief executive Kersten England on board.

Ms England said: "This is fantastic. This is the best of Bradford everybody coming together and everybody enjoying themselves."

Today's teams are raising money for the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Geoff Reid's chosen charity YoungMinds which helps children, young people and their parents to find out about the mental health and wellbeing services that are available to them.

Scull-arly Activity from Bradford College have raised £500 so far for the charity. Jane George who is Head of Faculty said: “It's wonderful , it's great fun. It's brilliant spending time off duty with colleagues having a good time and raising lots of money."

One of the many families having fun were the Petty's from Allerton who were cheering on their mum Sarah in Bradford Council's Force Of The Future team. Emily four, Charlie nine and Oliver seven,  were watching the dragonboats from the riverside with family friends Sarah Topley from Shipley and Kathryn Hill who travelled from Wakefield. Charlie said : "We're very proud of mum even though her boat didn't win, she came second."

Just over half way through the event, the fastest time was one minute and three seconds.

The Army, Saltaire Brewery and Red Phoenix were all strong contenders.

Spectators are estimated to number about 15,000 so far.

The Council's event manager John Galt said: "Last year was busy but this is bigger, the crowds are still coming in. It's fantastic."

The event continues until 6pm.

Tomorrow, corporate teams will take to the water to raise funds for a variety of chosen charities.