WITH finance ledger assistant Simon Halls shouting the orders and purchasing administrator Hannah Hughes banging the drum, the team from Droitwich floorcare brand Vax put in a valiant performance in Worcester’s Race The Dragon charity regatta to raise £185 for Macmillan Cancer Trust.

The company's chosen charity was nominated by employee Marie Tyrell, who is currently battling cancer and works as a customer service advisor at Vax’s headquarters in

More than 20 Vax employees from all parts of the business teamed up as the Steaming Vaxons crew, one of a record 28 to compete in the event. Wearing World Cup themed ‘retro footballer’ fancy dress outfits, complete with tight shorts, curly perm wigs and moustaches, the Vaxons battled their way through the first four races in a bid to win a place in the finals.

Unfortunately tiredness took its toll in the last heat, causing them to miss out on a place in the finals and putting them 21st overall.

“It was a great effort by everyone from Vax who took part, especially as we’d never paddled together as a team before the day,” said Simon Halls. “We all had a fantastic time and we’re really proud we’ve helped raise money for such a great cause in the process. We’ll definitely be back next year to break into the top 20.”