A RAFT race is returning this year after being forced to cancel due to the Covid-19 lockdown last year.

The Lewes to Newhaven Raft Race has confirmed that it will go ahead on August 8 this year. The event will be supporting two charities which are the Newhaven RNLI and Sussex Search and Rescue.

The crews will have to build their self-propelled rafts and be able to complete a seven-mile segment of the River Ouse, running from Malling Recreational Ground in Lewes to Newhaven.

The Argus: Lewes to Newhaven Raft RaceLewes to Newhaven Raft Race

A prize will be given to the fastest raft on the day. There will also be awards for the best decorated raft, the most environmentally friendly raft and the Constructors cup.

The cup competition is open to local building contractors as an opportunity to show who is the best Sussex contraction company.

The race will have the theme of the Tokyo Olympics, so competitors have to be Olympic themed or be celebrating Japanese culture.

The race has been organised by Lewes and District Round Table. The first race was held in 1975 and involved 35 crews on their homemade rafts.