GROUPS and organisations are invited to take part in the community Bell-Boat Regatta on Saturday, May 16, at Fladbury Paddle Club.

Designed by Olympic canoe coach David Train, the Bell-Boat is a stable, twin-hulled team boat, propelled by the crew using paddles.

This is the sixth year the regatta has been staged, with around 50 teams and 500 people taking part.

The event includes classes for children and adults; open classes and a village event.

For the open class, any groups of any age or ability are welcome, including businesses, pub teams, sports clubs, scouts and guides.

Villages are also welcome and can include friends and family of villagers, not only residents.

The regatta is part of a dozen taking place over the season in Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Gloucestershire as part of a project to create many local festivals.

Andy Train, chairman of Fladbury Paddle Club, who competed in five Olympics and was a three-time world champion, said: “In many ways, what we are doing is the opposite of the Olympics.

“The Olympic Games are an expensive international event where most of the world watch while a few take part. However, we are trying to create many local festivals where everyone can take part.”

The event will include a barbecue, teas, coffees, cakes and live music.

Local bands and musicians wishing to have the opportunity to perform to a crowd are also invited.

Races will be held over a 200m course on the River Avon at Fladbury Paddle Club, with each team involved in three rounds.

To take part in the regatta, people will need to field a team of eight paddlers. However, if people have fewer members they could combine with others in a similar situation to form a team.

Bands and musician wishing to perform, can get an entry form and further details by e-mailing Andy Train at: atrain1@btinternet.com