Competition fierce as teams compete in the River Axe Canoe Challenge to raise �600 for Seaton Hospital

A ‘needle match’ river race has given Seaton Hospital a �600 shot in the arm.

Teams from Seaton and Colyton Medical practice and the league of friends competed in the ‘Carry On up the Axe’ canoe challenge.

Ruth Lane, Annette Sinclaire and Richard Carter, from the Axe Valley rehabilitation team, along with league volunteer, Sharon Bridgeman, paddled home first in the final race to win a bottle of champagne.

Tash Khan-Davis, a highly qualified instructor with the Axe Vale Canoe Club, building their confidence with a series of smaller races before the final.

One team did manage to go for a swim but organisers said it only added to the fun.

Later the teams returned to the harbour for a barbecue at Jean’s Tea Caddy.

League manager, Lycia Moore thanked everyone who supported the event by either taking part or sponsoring the teams, picking out organiser John Martell and Mr Khan-Davis for special praise.

The league’s next fundraising event is its Christmas fayre on November 17 at the town hall. Any donations of unwanted gifts would be very much appreciated. The league is also looking for more volunteers to help in its charity shop in Fore Street and helpers to take the refreshments trolley around the wards at the hospital.

For further information please contact Mrs Moore on 01297 20143.