Three teams representing a paper mill company battled it out in a boat race to raise funds for Bury Hospice.

Essity paper mills based in Oakenholt, Skelmersdale and Stubbins battled it out in the Bury Hospice Dragon Boat Race  to raise vital funds for the charity.

The event took place at Elton Reservoir and each boat consisted of 16 rowers and a drummer to cover a challenging 180-meter stretch.

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The Essity teams competed against seven others representing various companies to win the title of the Bury Hospice Dragon Boat Race Winner 2024.

Approximately 400 spectators witnessed the action on the day.

The final showdown featured the fastest three teams of the day: Essity’s Skelmersdale Dragon Slayers, Stubbins Sharks and Oakenholt Mill.

The Skelmersdale Dragon Slayers emerged victorious, with only a second separating all three teams.

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Through its Mill Community Fund, Essity has donated £3,000 to support the work of Bury Hospice and plan to return to battle it out again next year.

Lee Jones, site manager of Essity’s three North West sites said: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bury Hospice and all fellow rowers for contributing to such a remarkable event!

“The Dragon Boat Race not only fosters teamwork but also serves a noble cause.

“As a local business, we are honoured to stand behind such a vital institution within our community, particularly during these challenging times.

“It brings us great pride to offer our support and we eagerly anticipate our return next year, aiming to further bolster our contributions to this worthy charity.”

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Helen Lockwood, CEO, at Bury Hospice, said: “We are really pleased with how our first Dragon Boat Race went and we thank all participants.

“The racers all demonstrated their sporting abilities and team spirit in great form. We were overwhelmed with the spectator turnout, with the crowds showing their support for the racers and the hospice.

“As of now, the total raised from the race stands at £14,000, however, this is rising as more donations continue to come in.

“We are already planning next year’s event and are looking forward to bringing the community together again for more fantastic fundraising in support of our patients and their families.”