More than 80 people have taken part in a kayak down the River Exe to raise money for Oxfam.

More than 80 people have taken part in a kayak down the River Exe to raise money for Oxfam.

The Exeter to Exmouth Kayak Rally was organised by the Exe Sailing Club on behalf of Exmouth Oxfam Fundraising Group, and saw 83 kayaks and canoes taking part.

The canoeists set off from Haven Banks in Exeter Canal Basin, and kayaked initially to The Turf, where they received refreshments and a safety briefing about kayaking on the open river.

From there, they made their way down the open river, accompanied by safety boats.

A strong southerly wind made conditions on the river difficult, and a group of racing kayaks was forced to turn back.

However, the majority of the competitors successfully made it to Exe Sailing Club, where they enjoyed refreshments and a barbecue.

A total of �525 was raised for the chosen charity, Oxfam.

Nick Webber, a member of Exmouth Oxfam Fundraising Group and the Exe Sailing Club, said: “The event was run by volunteers, and a special thanks must go to the safety boat operators, who contributed their time and costly fuel to make this event possible.

“We would like to thank Sail Exmouth Sailing School, Exmouth Sea Cadets, Exmouth Beach Rescue, the Royal Marines, Starcross Yacht Club, Stuart Line, and four members from the Exe Sailing Club.”

The event was held for the first time in 2009 and, after the success of this year’s event, the organisers are hoping it will become an annual fixture.