PADDLERS are being urged to take the plunge and sign up for Bradford’s Lord Mayor’s Appeal Dragon Boat Festival which will be held next year.

Up to 40 teams are expected to compete in the second boat race in aid of Bradford good causes which will be held on Saturday, May 7, 2016 on the River Aire at Roberts Park in Saltaire.

The charities which will benefit from the funds raised are Bradford Hospitals Children’s Charity and the Lord Mayor’s own Spread a Smile Appeal.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Joanne Dodds said: "After the huge success of the previous event I was keen to ensure that the Dragon Boat Festival took place during my term as Lord Mayor of Bradford.

"Although it’s not something I’ve done before, I can’t wait to have a go in the boats as it looks such fun.”

"There is provision for 40 teams and we have already filled around a quarter of these places with teams that took part last time, so we are encouraging people to sign up as soon as possible."

Visit www.lmabradforddbf.co.uk, follow @DragonBoatsBrad or visit www.facebook.com/BradfordLordMayorsAppeal.