FIRMS across Hampshire are being urged to join the race to find a cure for leukaemia.

Teams from Southampton-based companies will be racing head to head in the Leukaemia Busters Bell Boat Regatta at the city's international boat show next month.

The event starts at 9am on Saturday, September 11, with two teams of ten paddlers racing in the final at midday.

Companies lining up against each other this year include Mayday Personnel, B&Q, Ernst & Young, Deloitte & Touche, Skandia, Sylkes Consulting, Hampshire Partitioning Contracts and BDO Hayward.

The teams will be battling it out in catamaran-style canoes for the coveted paddle trophy, while raising valuable funds for the Leukaemia Busters' Cure for All campaign.

This is the third year the charity has run the competition.

Organisers are hoping next month's regatta will be as successful as last year's, which raised nearly £4,000.

There will be an added twist, with prizes for the best dressed team, best team name and most money raised, as well as the ultimate winners of the coveted paddle trophy.

Supporters of the companies and regular visitors to the show, can view the races from the spectator grandstand on the day.

l Three team places are still available. If you or your company would like to take part, contact Leukaemia Busters on 023 8063 6607 to register before September 3.