A Kent accountancy practice taking part in the KM Dragon Boat Race has thrown down the gauntlet to possible challengers, daring others to do battle with them on the water.

But contenders will have to be quick to sign up a boat – the KM Charity Team’s biggest fundraising event of the year is on Sunday, July 1.

Race supporter Wilkins Kennedy - which has offices in Maidstone, Ashford, Canterbury, Sandwich and Orpington - is entering a team with the aim of raising funds for Demelza Hospice Care for Children.

Alex Andrews, who is a regional marketing executive for the firm, said: “It will be a great opportunity for team building across our five offices in the region.

“The event also raises money for around 30 charities across Kent.

“This year, we’ve put our own team together. If you’d like to book a team and see if you can come and beat us, then give it a try!”

The KM Dragon Boat Race, which last year raised £100,000 for charity, will be held at Mote Park in Maidstone on Sunday, July 1.

Teams take part in a minimum of three races, with the fastest going through to the finals at the end of the day. The maximum team size is 17, with 11 members in the boat for each race, and one crew member beating a drum to dictate the pace of the paddles.

All funds raised by each team goes to the good cause of their choice.

Back on dry land spectators can cheer on their teams, visit stalls, purchase food and drink, or hire rowing boats or pedal boats at Mote Park Watersports Centre. The first race will start at 10am.

To book a boat, visit www.KmCharityTeam.co.uk/Booking and use the discount code KMNEWS18.