WORCESTER'S dragon boats have returned to the river Severn's waters as the charity racing event made its long-awaited return. 

The race the dragon event was a tradition in Worcester for over 25 years, but today's event was the first since the outbreak of Covid-19. 

CLOSE RACE- This race was very competitive. CLOSE RACE- This race was very competitive. (Image: Ryan Smith)

Racing  began at 10am and has been taking place between the Worcester Bridge and Café Viaduct.

The winners will be announced shortly after racing finishes at 4pm. 

KEEP PUSHING- One of the dragon boat crews push to victory. KEEP PUSHING- One of the dragon boat crews push to victory. (Image: Ryan Smith)

This year's event has seen seven teams, made up of over 100 people, battle it out to be crowned the best dragon boat racers. 

It has been organised by the Worcester Dragon Boat Racing Team. 

Penny Whitehouse, from the Worcester Dragon Boat Racing Team, told the Worcester News: "Holding our first event since Covid has been such a big thing for us, and it has gone really well. 

The race build-up begins.The race build-up begins. (Image: Ryan Smith)

"There have been lots of smiley faces and competitive races, I'm so glad the event is finally back. 

"We definitely want to make this an annual thing once again, you can see from how many people are here watching how popular it is and there is nothing better than getting in a boat in the sunny weather and to go racing." 

A dragon boat pushes ahead in its race. A dragon boat pushes ahead in its race. (Image: Ryan Smith)

Hundreds of people stood at the side of the river to cheer on the teams, with the Café Viaduct selling refreshments to those sitting on the grass. 

This year's event was raising vital funds for the local dementia café, as several members of the team have had personal experiences knowing people who have suffered from dementia. 

RACE READY- The Malvern Hills Round Table crewRACE READY- The Malvern Hills Round Table crew (Image: Ryan Smith)

The Northwick Knights rowing team were also raising cash for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. 

This charity was selected after team member David Palmer lost a friend and colleague to Motor Neurone Disease. 

As well as the dragon boat race, Mr Palmer's singing duo, This Is The Life, held a fund-raising evening at the Northwick Arms. 

The Northwick Knights raise money for a very special cause. The Northwick Knights raise money for a very special cause. (Image: Ryan Smith)

The Worcester Dragon Boat Racing Club is welcoming new members to join them. 

Everyone over 12 years old is welcome to join and they train at the boatyard next to the Swan Sanctuary steps, behind Worcestershire County Cricket ground. 

Contact them on Facebook or on their website www.worcester-dragons.org.uk for more information.