Seven vessels took part in the annual Newcastle Emlyn Charity Raft Race over the weekend – all of various descriptions in a race along the river Teifi and around the castle. With huge public support and great weather, the raft race was a crowd puller.

The winner was Totally Tootsies. In second place and just being beaten to the finishing line and being awarded the prize for the best raft was Newcastle Emlyn raft race first timer Liz Kempton, her two year old son Marcus and nephew, 11-year-old George.

"It was the first time I’ve taken part in the Emlyn raft race, but I did win the Aberaeron Raft Race when I was 11,’ said Liz, who took only ten minutes to strap her raft together.

And will she take part next year? "I think George will insist! My daughter Katie can join us next year as she will be two by then," said Liz.

Last over the finishing line was a three girl crew from the Bunch of Grapes.

Organisers Sharon Thomas and Catherine Rich were delighted with the support they received.

"I had a fantastic response I must say. Local businesses and individuals have made donations and have given sponsorship. The support has been fantastic and I can only compliment the town and its people," said Sharon.

"Moving the race to the May Bank Holiday instead of August, has definitely worked and we will be hosting it again next year.

"Thanks goes out to Brian and Phillys (Dai Plough's mum and dad ) for cooking the burgers and sausages after the raft race. Again, diolch yn fawr iawn i bawb am y gefnogaeth - thanks to all for the support and see you all next year," concluded Sharon.

Other rafts who took part were the: Pelican Inn, the Plough Hotel Pirates, the Raftafarians. The Bunch of Grapes had two rafts taking part.

Monies raised from the event will go towards the Newcastle Emlyn First Responder and the Fire Brigade, Ysgol Fethrin Adpar and Foel Farm, Penrherber.