A COMPANY in Watford has thrown down the gauntlet to businesses to compete in Rickmanworth's Dragon Boat Regatta next week.

A group of employees from the call centre of National Lottery operator Camelot in Tolpits Lane have entered the event and are challenging other workers in the area to do battle.

Team captain Mr Steve Miller, 29, said: 'We saw details about the regatta and we thought taking part would be a fun thing to do.

'If there's anyone out there who thinks they can put on a decent challenge, then we look forward to seeing them on the water.'

The regatta is part of the Rickmansworth Canal and Environment Festival, held at The Aquadrome in Riverside Drive on Saturday, May 20, and Sunday, May 21.

Twenty-one teams are expected to take part in races between 10am and 5pm on Sunday, May 21.

Teams should consist of 11 people, ten to paddle the dragon-shaped boat and one to bang on a drum to keep them in time.

The cost per team is £110, including all equipment and the chance to compete in at least three races. All participants must be aged 16 or over and be able to swim in light clothing.

Each team will be asked to raise money for three charities - the Rickmansworth Waterways Trust, The Peace Hospice in Peace Drive, Watford, and Wateraid, which supplies safe water to communities in developing countries.

To register a team, contact regatta organisers Dragons Alive on 0870 011 87 87.