A team of 45 women who regularly paddle together to support each other following their breast cancer diagnoses have held a fundraising event in Christchurch.

Pink Champagne Dragon Boat provides an opportunity for the women to support each other at the same time as exercising and living life to the fullest. The team paddle together on the river Stour in Christchurch throughout the year.

On 14 May, the team took to the water dressed in pink with lots of sparkle, ribbons, hats with some wearing decorated bras over their buoyancy aids. Their aim was to paddle a marathon distance of 26.2 miles whilst raising money to help keep the team afloat. The date coincided with the well-known Moonwalk that was taking place in London on the same day.

During the day, the team paddled in laps along the river Stour, receiving a great deal of support along the way, with many waving and clapping, and other river users offering much needed help.

In addition, the team ran a stall on Christchurch Quay to provide information about their group, and to receive donations, for which they were grateful. Their helm Allen bravely volunteered to let the team snip his long hair and beard in return for money in a collecting bucket.

Normally, the team holds a fundraising regatta every year, however, it was not able to go ahead for the past two years.

To find out more about the team or give a donation visit www.pinkchampagne.org.uk