Southampton-based children's cancer charity, Abby's Heroes, is preparing for its third annual Dragon Boat Festival.

Taking place at Hythe Marina on Saturday, September 7, 26 teams of 17 will embark on a series of races.

They will not only paddle but also keep in sync to the beat of their drummers. The motive? To be listed among the top four quickest squads that will proceed to the final contest to determine the 2024 Dragon Boat Champions.

The festival is not just about speed and competition, but also about celebrating the atmosphere. Prizes for the Best Dressed Team have been arranged. Attendants can indulge in a range of food, ice cream, and drinks available at the venue.

The event aims to entertain the whole family while backing an exceptional cause. Adding to its uniqueness this year, five additional children's cancer charities including Alfie’s Wish, Dylan’s Quest, George’s Rockstars, Hannah’s Holiday Homes, and Sophie’s Legacy will participate.

Founded by parents who have experienced a bereavement from cancer, these charities provide indispensable help to families currently living with a cancer diagnosis.

The care is coordinated with Piam Brown and Teenage and Young Adult wards at University Hospital Southampton. University Hospital Southampton is one of the mere 22 major centres in the UK for child cancer treatment.

Their responsibility covers Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Dorset, West Sussex, south Wiltshire, and the Channel Islands. With only three per cent of all cancer research funding dedicated to childhood cancer research, raising awareness at such events becomes crucial.

The Dragon Boat Festival kindles community bonding, and also underlines the importance of aiding families impacted by childhood cancer.

The races will start at about 10am and the festival is anticipated to end at roughly 3pm.

Abby’s Heroes CEO, Sally Randall, said: "This is one of our favourite fundraising events of the year and this year it will be bigger and better than ever before!

"With over 400 people taking part in this event it shines a huge light on childhood cancer and helps us all raise much needed funds to continue our support for children and young people diagnosed with cancer."