STAFF at a Gwent-based charity are preparing to take the plunge in the 50th Monmouth Raft Race.

A team from St David’s Hospice Care will take the River Wye with their raft to complete the annual race from Monmouth to Whitebrook next month.

The charity is the main beneficiary of funds raised at the popular event which is organised by The Rotary Club of Monmouth.

The six-and-a-half-mile race follows a course from Monmouth Rowing Club to Tump Farm and is held in aid of St David’s Hospice Care and other local charities.

This year's event will take place on Sunday, September 6.

Tania Ansell, captain of the St David’s Hospice Care team said: “It is a brilliant event. We have a sturdy raft and we are all looking forward to taking part and having a truly ‘oarsome’ day on the River Wye."

Norman Williams, of Monmouth Rotary Club, said: “We’re delighted that a team from St David’s Hospice Care has entered a raft this year for the very special 2015 Golden Jubilee event.

“Last year we reached our 100 raft target.

"Now for 2015, the 50th staging of the Monmouth Raft Race, we hope to increase that number again and have also set ourselves the goal of raising in excess of £50,000 for charity.”

There will be a family festival with food, live music from bands, a children’s fairground and a bar at the finish line.

Entry costs £75 per raft including a commitment to raise a minimum of £100 per raft in sponsorship.

To enter call Raft Race Secretary, Rotarian David Forbes on 01600 712665 or Kris Broome at St David's Hospice Care on 01633 851051 or online at www.monmouthraftrace.com