IT’S taken just six weeks to build.

But for competitors taking part in the annual raft race at Mudeford RNLI Fun Day this weekend, the sight of one such structure may give a few prospective paddlers the jitters.

Staff and regulars at The Ship in Distress pub in Stanpit have been putting the finishing touches to their impressive lobster raft ready for this Sunday’s race at Mudeford Quay.

Designed and built by carpet fitter Baz Millward, with a few helping hands, the raft originated in Baz’s front room before being moved to the pub where there was more space to build.

Landlady, Maggie Wheeler who will be one of the 12 paddling on Sunday said: “It looks amazing.

“We can’t believe it. Such a lot of work has gone into this.

“I’ve been persuaded to be on the raft too, which I’m a bit nervous about.”

The pub will be open from 4pm and as a special for diners, Maggie will be offering lobster for £15.95 for those who book in advance.

Katie Hocking, who will also be paddling on Sunday said: “Everyone has contributed in some way but Baz has been amazing designing and building the raft from scratch.

“It doesn’t really look like a raft – it’s more like a boat.

“There are plans to put it on the roof of the pub afterwards but I think that’ll have to be checked out first – it might be too heavy.”

The raft race is part of Mudeford RNLI Fun Day on Sunday and will start at 1pm.

There will be stalls and refreshments as well as a display from the Mudeford Lifeboat and HM Coastguard helicopter.

All proceeds will go towards the cost of the Mudeford Lifeboat Station.

For more information go to mudefordlifeboatfunday.org.