It was appropriate that the event in aid of the Blue Skies Hospital Fund took place under dazzling blue skies on one of the loveliest days of the years so far – and the conditions certainly brought the spectators out, with scores eager to get a view of the colourful craft on the water.
Teams of 17 each took part and it is hoped the event will have raised a good sum for the Blue Skies charity, which, In partnership with Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, enhances the provision of patient care for public benefit.
These 29 fun, action-packed pictures capture the teams making a splash for the good cause...
9. Imaginative and fun costumes added to the spectacle at the Blue Skies Dragon Boat Festival
Blue Skies Dragon Boat Festival at Fairhaven Lake | National World Photo: Neil Cross
10. Teams were keen to make a splash at the Dragon Boat Festival at Fairhaven Lake
Blue Skies Dragon Boat Festival at Fairhaven Lake | National World Photo: Neil Cross
11. It's Mario! Colourful costumes were the order of the day for the teams taking part in the Dragon Boat Festival at Fairhaven Lake
Dragon Boat Festival at Fairhaven Lake | National World Photo: Neil Cross
12. It was appropriate that the event in aid of the Blue Skies Hospital Fund took place under dazzling blue skies – and the conditions certainly brought the spectators out, with scores eager to get a view of the colourful craft on the water
Blue Skies Dragon Boat Festival at Fairhaven Lake | National World Photo: Neil Cross