A NEW dragon boat team made quite a splash at the weekend after winning their first racing event.

Bourne Water Dragons, based at Iford Christchurch, is thought to be the only team on the south coast that includes both men and women with all cancers.

The team's first official race was The Stable Family Home Trust Dragon Boat Challenge 2019 at Poole Park on Saturday.

Founder member Christine Bailey said: "This was our first outing as Bourne Water Dragons in challenging weather conditions.The wind was so strong but we had the best time on the water and at the end of the day we won – we just could not believe it!

"It was the icing on the cake. There were 17 boats on the day and we were up against some fit young people including gym instructors. I think the average age on our boat must have been in the mid-60s."

She added: "Bourne Water Dragons encompass all genders and all cancers. This is at the heart of our focus as there’s not much out there for men after they’ve finished cancer treatment and to work together brings such a wonderful connection for both women and men to promote a healthy body and mind."

The team meet at 6.30pm on Thursdays. To find out more, visit the charity's Facebook page.