THEIR steely determination to lead full and active lives will be on show in Canada this month when breast cancer survivors represent Great Britain at the International Dragon Boat Festival.

Members of the Daily Echo backed Pink Champagne dragon boat team, who practise on the River Stour at Christchurch twice a week, will be using paddle power in the hope of steering their craft to success.

The amazing group of strong-willed women will travel to Ontario on Saturday to compete against breast cancer survivor teams from all over the world.

A registered charity determined to raise awareness of breast cancer and empower fellow sufferers to think positively, Pink Champagne have held boot sales, quiz evenings, book sales and hosted garden parties to boost their coffers.

Spokeswoman Laura Berry said: “Our reward came last September when we took ownership of Pink Champagne. We create quite a stir when we paddle on the Stour.

“We are so much more than ladies who have had a few troubles.

“Real friendships have been forged and we don’t sit around feeling sorry for ourselves.

“What we really need now is to get two new boats on the water as they are much lighter than our second-hand maiden.

“Realistically just one would make a huge difference.”

Laura added: “Our ambition is to do well in the international dragon boat festival for breast cancer survivors in Canada.”

For more information about the team contact Jane Young on 07881411284 /01202471927 or Brenda Callaghan on 07976712666.