TEAMS from across the region are gearing up for the fifth Taunton Dragon Boat Festival in aid of Headway Somerset.

A total of 20 dragon boats will set off down the River Tone, each manned by staff from local businesses, clubs, organisations and groups of friends.

This year's event, supported by accountants Milsted Langdon and law firm Clarke Willmott, sees races from 10am until 3.30pm on Sunday, June 11.

Teams are encouraged to wear costumes as there are medals for the teams in first, second and third place and also best fancy dress entry, as well as the wooden paddle award for the team with the slowest time.

Money raised from the event will go to Headway Somerset, an independent charity that supports adults with acquired brain injuries, their families and carers.

Steve Horton, financial services partner at Milsted Langdon, said: “This event has become a real highlight in the local calendar and we are absolutely delighted to be offering our support to this event.

“The Dragon Boat Festival offers a great day out for both participants and spectators and will hopefully raise plenty of money for this fantastic cause.”

There will be a variety of food and drink stalls, including a hog roast, pancakes and ice creams.

Hilary Dicks, chief executive of Headway Somerset, said: “We are grateful to both Milsted Langdon and Clarke Willmott who are joint sponsors of this year’s event.

"We are expecting a very competitive day and hope that people will come along and support the event.”