ORGANISERS of one of the UK’s oldest river races is using the internet to enable entrants to sign up for the first time in its 47-year history.

Monmouth Rotary Club is hoping that enabling people to sign up via the internet will help them reach their target of 100 teams at this year’s Monmouth Raft Race.

The event sees teams take to the River Wye on home-made crafts in September.

Monmouth Rotarian, Norman Williams said: "We’re extremely encouraged by number of entries for this year’s Monmouth Raft Race and in particular those that have taken advantage of being able to complete their entry and send all their information through online."

Last year, 57 teams entered the event raising £20,455 towards St David’s Hospice Care and local charities.

Prizes are available for the fastest raft, the best design and best dressed and other special awards on what is a great, fun day out for all the family.

The six-and-a-half mile race from Monmouth Rowing Club to Tump Farm takes place from noon on September 2.

Teams can still enter by post, using the entry form downloaded from the webpage if they prefer.

For details visit www.monmouthshireraftrace.com