PEMBROKESHIRE is preparing to host the debut Welsh Dragon Boat Race Championship.

The races at Llys y Fran Country Park and Reservoir take place on Bank Holiday Sunday (May 25). The boats race in pairs in three heats, with the fastest times qualifying for the final.

Each team is made up of 17 people, including a drummer at the helm who ceremoniously beats in time with the rowing. So far 16 teams have entered.

The racing is not the only attraction of the day.

There will be a host of family entertainment, including bouncy castles, sumo wrestling, bucking bronco, as well as a licensed bar, and barbecues.

Entertainment will also be provided by live bands Audio Soup Kitchen, Sad Cafe Jammers and Jack Castle Sound, before a DJ takes over and entertains well into the evening.

The Noah’s Ark Appeal (Wales’ largest Children’s Charity) has been appointed as the official beneficiary, alongside Pembrokeshire’s Paul Sartori Foundation and others. In addition to the official charities however, the event organisers, Narberth and Whitland Rotary Club is also keen to invite other fundraisers to take stands on the day, free of charge.

Ken Morgan, rotary spokesman and event manager, said: “We expect lots of interest in this, the first of what we hope are many Welsh Dragon Boat Championships to come.

"It’s aptly timed to coincide with the Whitsun Bank Holiday, and weather permitting, Llys y Fran is a large site to facilitate a large crowd.”

Event organisers were delighted by the generosity shown from the Llys y Fran management, which, in a bid to further promote the event as a family festival-like weekend, and also to promote responsible drinking, is inviting event participants and spectators alike to pitch tents overnight – at no extra charge.

For more information about the event visit www.welshdragonboatchampionship.com