Wallingford Raft Race is back and with a new trophy.

After a year's absence, the race is being held on Friday, July 27, on the Thames at Wallingford Bridge.

The new trophy has been named the Robert Rowe Memorial Trophy in memory of the Wallingford Lions Club secretary, whose death last year led to the cancelling of the raft race he was organising.

The trophy will be awarded to the crew raising the most sponsorship money.

The organisers now want local pubs, clubs, organisations and companies to enter teams.

They should be of four or six members - two must be female - riding rafts built by themselves out of drums, barrels and floats.

A special category is open to 16 to 18 year olds in schools, cadets and youth clubs.

Prizes, decided by mayor Betty Atkins and local MP Ed Vaizey, will be awarded for the fastest raft, best dressed crew, most original raft and first to sink. There will also be a youth cup.

Details and entry forms can be obtained from race co-ordinator Mike Byard on 01865 407168 or by email at maritime@yalumba.co.uk