The traditional event, which first started in 1961, once again saw rafters in fancy dress take their home-made vessels on to the river and sail them from Matlock to Cromford Meadows.
As well as a bracing way to burn off the festive over-eating, the event also helps raise money to fund the life-saving work of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI)
Organised by the DASAC (Derbyshire Association of Sub Aqua Clubs), the event has raised around £2,900 annually, totalling an impressive sum of over £154,000 and provided money for two lifeboats over the years.
The race returned to the water of Derbyshire in 2024 after dangerously high river levels forced a late cancellation last year.
Longtime sponsors have come rushing back already, including Twiggs engineers' merchants, quarrying firm Longcliffe and the Heights of Abraham.
This year’s winners were The Destroyer/Submarine, with second-place awarded to The Grinch and third spot going to Santa's Naughty Elves
A Special Commendation Award also went to the Coca-Cola Truck, for an incredibly valiant effort.
Organisers at the DASAC added: “Congratulations to everyone that took part. Thank you to everyone who participated, spectated or donated! What an amazing turnout and what a fantastic event!
“It's not too late to donate to support the amazing RNLI. We can still hit our donation goal!” You can donate here: https://gofund.me/25c8ba90
Local photographer Nick Rhodes was on hand to capture these great photos.
2. Matlock Raft Race
The race saw home-made boats from all corners of the country come together to join in the fun Photo: NICK RHODES
3. Matlock Raft Race
Rafters again showed their great creativity with their vesslels - including a floating cricket wicket Photo: NICK RHODES
