SPECTATORS and supporters lined the banks of the River Ouse for York’s annual Dragon Boat Challenge.

The races, organised by the York Rotary, involved 36 teams from businesses and organisations in the city.

The teams were dressed as jungle animals, pirates, oompa-loompas and prisoners.

York College’s SuperTutors team wore mortar boards and fundraisers for MacMillan donned bright green wigs. A York Theatre Royal crew from its upcoming performance of Peter Pan joined in the fancy dress.

While teams and their supporters gathered on the south bank of the river, the north bank featured stalls from local charities and businesses, and entertainment, including the New Notes jazz band.

The challenge was part of the York Festival Of The Rivers, which runs until July 24, to celebrate the Ouse and Foss with a range of cultural and leisure activities.

Nic Price, captain of York Rowing Club, said the Dragon Boat Challenge continued to build momentum.

He said: “People are more enthusiastic and we have had a greater number of inquiries from people wanting to set up teams and be part of a crew.”

He said the section of the river used for the races, from Marygate to Lendal Bridge, was suitable for other river events too.

“It’s a great attraction for the city. When people walk into town from the railway station they are curious about what’s going on on the river. It draws in small businesses which set up stalls on the far side, and we added the sound system to add a more carnival atmosphere. It’s an illustration of the sort of events that can take place and draw a crowd to the river and people really enjoy it.”

The fastest time, 58 seconds, was recorded by Todd’s Torpedoes, a team put in by Herbert Todd & Son, which was raising money for the Macmillan cancer charity.