Organisers confirm return of Boxing Day raft event on Derbyshire's River Derwent
As the distant tinkle of sleighbells gets a little louder by the week, a much sploshier sound is nearing close behind with plans well under way for the traditional Boxing Day raft event on the River Derwent through Matlock Bath.
A fixture of the festive calendar since 1961, after a rare high-water cancellation in 2023 last year’s event saw more than 100 intrepid voyagers take to the river on 21 homemade vessels.
They were cheered on by crowds from Matlock down to Cromford Meadows, with many thrills and spills along the way and in the process, the Derbyshire Association of Sub-Aqua Clubs added to the £250,000-plus running total raised to date for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
Co-organiser Terry Radford said: “Last year was one of the most successful editions we’ve ever had, raising nearly £4,000, which was a fantastic result.
“The weather and river conditions were good, and we had one of the largest crowds we’ve ever seen, with everyone joining in.”
Maintaining the start-time trialled in 2024, the rafts will again set off from Cawdor Quarry at 11am and, all being well, arrive at the finish line 60-90 minutes later before everyone dries off back at the Fishpond in Matlock Bath for the awards presentation.
First-timers will find many of the hospitality businesses along the route open for the event, serving hot food and drink to enjoy with the spectacle.
Terry said: “The format remains the same, you can’t change too much. We’ve got some good sponsors on board and we’re hoping the Mayor of Matlock can join us for the judging.
“Unfortunately Derbyshire 4x4 have another engagement that day, so we are still a few marshals short if anyone wants to volunteer.
“It’s generally a quiet day, and you’re not there to marshal the crowds – it’s to keep an eye on the participants and help when needed, just in case.”
Anyone interested in helping on the day can get in touch with Terry via the Matlock Raft Event Facebook page or terryradders[at]gmail.com.
As usual, there is no need for crews to register in advance, but all participants must be aged 18 or over, relatively fit and active and properly equipped – a dry suit, head protection and a boyancy aid are recommended.
For full details, visit matlockraftevent.co.uk or the Facebook page.