Soldiers from across the country made a splash in the Thames as teams went head to head in an eye-catching dragon boat race.

Every year teams compete in Abingdon's Dragon Boat Festival to raise money for good causes.

Due to Covid, last years' Dragon Boat Festival was unable to go ahead but this year's went ahead with new organisers.

Previous years have seen the race organised by the Rotary Club of Abingdon Vesper, though this year ABF The Soldiers’ Charity organised the event for the first time.

The charity aims to give a lifetime of support to soldiers and veterans from the British Army and their immediate families when they are in need.

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity spends £30K in grants every year to servicemen and veterans in Oxfordshire.

Seven Royal Logistics Corps regiments competed for the trophy which was previously held by 3 Regiment RLC, based at nearby Dalton Barracks, Abingdon.

Tim Davies from ABF The Soldiers’ Charity said the race had units taking part from as far afield as Hampshire and Leicester, as well as those in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

The competition was tight, with rowers racing in three heat races followed by a knock-out competition which revealed the fastest teams for the final.

The winners were 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC from Southampton which beat 7 Regiment RLC from Leicester.

It was a close race with just 10 seconds separating the two teams.

The winners cooled off from the competitive race by taking a refreshing plunge in the River Thames.

Local contenders 3 Regiment had to settle for third place after narrowly beating 27 Regiment from Bulford, Wiltshire.

The awards and trophy was presented by Colonel Jon West ADC who is the Colonel, Royal Logistics Corps.

The Dragon Boat Festival was also enjoyed by families and spectators who enjoyed a barbecue as they cheered on the rowers at Rye Farm Meadow.