Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival makes waves for Sue Ryder hospice

It was all hands on deck at this year’s Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival as crews took to the water, raising £10,000 for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice - with donations still splashing in. 

Local businesses and community groups jumped aboard the beautifully carved dragon boats on Saturday 20 June, for the 26th festival organised by New Wave Events. Competitors took on a series of fun-filled races along the 200-metre course at Peterborough Rowing Lake with seas of spectators cheering them onto the finish line.  

The overall winners on the day were Howden Turbo with Hippo Motors taking second place, Smurfit Westrock March scooping first place in the Mixed Crew Champions and Crown Packaging judged as Best Dressed Crew.

The fantastic BEKO were named as Charity Champions for their efforts raising £1,050 for Sue Ryder helping the charity to continue to provide expert and compassionate palliative care in its hospices and in people’s own homes, as well as bereavement support for families when they need it most.

As well as fun on the water, the festival featured a range of bankside entertainment, delectable food stalls, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.

Asif Shaheed, Regional Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, said “What a great day was had by all. It was lovely to hear our crews sharing their enjoyment for the event -with many saying it's their favourite team building event of the year. The atmosphere was fantastic and the competition between the teams was fun but fierce. Congratulations to our winners Howden Turbo and thank you to everyone who took part and helped raise vital funds.”

Isabel Kupusarevic, Trainee Festival and Events Manager at New Wave Events, adds: The Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival delivered another incredible day on the water this year. Teams raced with real heart and determination, all whilst raising vital funds for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice - and the crowd more than matched their energy. It was a genuine community celebration, with people from across the city coming together to share in something truly uplifting. We can't wait to welcome everyone back again in 2027." 

Inspired to take on a fundraiser for Sue Ryder? Find out more about their upcoming events here: sueryder.or/events

For information about Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, visit www.sueryder.org/thorpehall