Get set to breathe fire on the water - as an annual dragon boat race gets under way.

The dragon boat race is being planned by the KM Charity Team to help charitable groups with their fund-raising.

The aim is to stage a Kent-wide event with teams able to raise funds for the chosen charity of each KM Group title.

Alternatively school PTA groups, sports clubs, charities and businesses can raise funds for their own chosen charity.

In future years the annual event will take place on the first Sunday in July but for 2009 it will take place on Sunday, October 4. The event will take place at Chatham Maritime.

Teams of 17 will compete with one of the crew beating a drum to dictate the pace of the paddles. Teams will compete in a minimum of three races but the fastest teams will compete in the finals at the end of the day.

It is a challenge for those who wish to savour the ancient traditions of the dragon boat, as much as for those who want to test their strength and rowing technique by travelling across the 250m course in the fastest time. It is also a day for spectators as well as for people taking part.

Six corporate sponsorship packages will be available from £500 with each firm having a dragon boat named after their business.

Information packs are being produced this week and will be available to download at www.kmcharitychallenge.co.uk for information call Simon Dolby on 07989 164 752.