A GROUP of Shillingstone residents are planning an oarsome feat – to take part in the Dragonboat racing at Sherborne Castle country fair on May bank holiday Monday.
The team, calling itself the Shillingstone Movers and Shakers, is made up of women from the local WI group, members of a church congregation and other villagers.
The plucky paddlers – whose ages range from mid-50s to mid-70s – are ready to take on all comers, despite doing no training and being among the oldest competitors at the show.
WI member Penny Mogg, 62, said: “We’re all totally up for it. The whole village has rallied behind us, offering sponsorship and practical help.
“We are hoping to persuade one of the men to act as drummer. We’ll try and keep up with the beat as long as it’s not too fast. We don’t want it to be like the galley scene in Ben Hur!”
The team will be racing to raise money for Julia’s House, the Dorset children’s hospice, which Penny said had helped recruitment. To sponsor the Shillingstone crew, visit justgiving.com/anthony-vicky-thomas
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article