A HUGE number of events held in and around York over the weekend took their chances with the weather.

The sunshine on Saturday meant the York branch of the British Heart Foundation could lay a trail of coins around York Minster with the help of the Lord Mayor, Coun Irene Waudby.

This biennial event has been held since 1985 raising in excess of £1,000 for heart research each time.

Shoppers at Clifton Moor, on Saturday, got to see staff from Ravel, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Clarks stores seated in a cage attached to bungee cords catapulted 200 feet up into the air.

They were raising money for the children's renal unit at St James's Hospital in Leeds.

Yesterday's events faired less well with the weather as the rain set in, but many went ahead regardless of the dark skies.

One such event was the annual Dragon Boat Challenge on the River Ouse in York, which was organised by the Rotary Club.

It involved nearly 600 paddlers and raised more then £250,000 for local charities.

Rotary Club spokesman Frank Paterson said: "The racing was exciting with 36 teams participating overall. Each crew consisted of 16 paddlers and a Drummer selected from a team of up to 20 including reserves.

"Each team participated in three preliminary rounds and the six teams with the fastest time in the preliminary rounds took part in the grand final.

"The weather was not so kind this year and the teams deserve great credit for their performance in adverse conditions."

This year's overall event winners were The Growlers who represented Ged Bell & Son Butchers and were raising money for Yorkshire Cancer Relief.

A big birthday bash was held at Rowntree Park, York, yesterday Despite the downpours thousands of people descend on the park to enjoy an exciting programme of traditional birthday party attractions, as well as the chance to join the local Scouting community as it celebrates the centenary. There were two performances by the North Yorkshire Scouting Centenary Commemoration Band, which is made up of bands from across the region that have come together for the centenary celebrations.