Paddles were splashed and triple records were smashed at the KM Dragon Boat Race which accumulated a massive £100,000 for good causes across the county.

Fifty teams – the largest number of competitors to date – climbed aboard their boats in Mote Park, Maidstone to raise the huge cash sum for a multitude of charities.

Some of those benefiting from the challenge event included Hi Kent, Action for Children, Dandelion Time and Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.

Race records were also toppled by Whitstable team Blatch and Green who surged to victory for the fifth consecutive year. The team also achieved their fastest time ever of 0.50.02.

Team 2 of Abigail’s Footsteps cam in second with 0.54.71, and third place was awarded to Dandelion Time with 0.55.26.

Polly Viccars of Chatham based business Kent Reliance congratulated all the teams and presented Blatch and Green with the champions trophy and medals.

The annual event which was organised by the KM Group’s charitable division saw teams of 11 battling to complete the 250m course in the fastest time with one crew member beating a drum to set the pace.

Spectators enjoyed a day out in the sunshine which features thrilling races, charity stalls and a wide selection of hot food and drink.

Simon Dolby, chief executive of the KM Charity Team, said: “The KM Dragon Boat Race continues to go from strength to strength.

“Once again it proves itself to be both our flagship event, and a truly action-packed day out for the people of Kent and Medway. We are simply thrilled with the success of this year’s race.”

Event organiser Dominic Comins was quick to thank Kent Reliance and Mote Park Water Sports Centre for their support of the event.

“They are instrumental to the staging and success of major events such as this, and without their aid, we wouldn’t be in a position to help so many wonderful, vital good causes,” he said.

The KM Dragon Boat Race is a regular fixture of the summer, taking place every year on the first Sunday in July.

Organisations interested in sponsoring the 2017 KM Dragon Boat Race should contact Mr Dolby on sdolby@thekmgroup.co.uk or call 0844 264 0291.

• Booking is now open for the KM Charity Team’s next challenge event – the KM Assault Course Challenge. Teams of six will face off against balance beams, water jumps and tyre walls at the annual fundraiser.Click here to secure your place.