A TOP council figure will be sticking his oar in this weekend in aid of charity.

David Atkinson, chief executive of City of York Council, will be teaming up with York City defender Danny Parslow, on Sunday in the annual Rotary Dragon Boat Challenge on the Ouse.

The pair are hoping to raise much-needed funds for several good causes as they join the crew of the council's team.

A City of York Council spokesperson said: "We're really looking forward to the Dragon Boat race and to teaming up with York City FC. It should be a great day out for spectators and competitors alike, as well as raising lots of money for really worthwhile causes, including the Lord Mayor's charities, Martin House Hospice and York Blind and Partially Sighted Society."

Nearly 600 paddlers in 36 teams will be battling on the river between Scarborough and Lendal bridges to win the coveted Rotary Trophy.

The first race is set to begin at 10am, with the racing expected to finish at around 5pm.