Dragon boaters on the River Great Ouse have raised £33,569 for Sue Ryder during the Bedford River Festival, as the charity opens registration for its upcoming Starlight Hike at Everard Meadow.
20 teams competed along a 200-metre stretch of the river on Saturday (18 July) to support palliative and bereavement care services across the Borough.
Organised alongside Bedford Borough Council and New Wave Events, with sponsorship from Champneys Wellness Spa, the event ended with Flying Rusticas from G J Property Services taking the 2026 title.
Movianto Wave Warriors, representing Movianto UK, finished as the top fundraising team by collecting £2,523 for the charity.
Nick Burr, regional senior fundraiser at Sue Ryder, said: “It was fantastic to see so many teams come together for this year’s Dragon Boat Race.
“The energy and enthusiasm were incredible, and we’re so grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered, sponsored or supported the event.
“Every pound raised will help Sue Ryder continue to provide expert care and support to people facing death and grief at the most difficult times in their lives.”
Gallery: Bedford River Festival 2026
Jason Whaley, from Movianto Wave Warriors, said: “Taking part in the Dragon Boat Race was a fantastic experience.
“It was great fun, brought our team from Movianto UK together and gave us the opportunity to support an important cause.
“The atmosphere throughout the day was amazing, and we are so proud to be the top fundraising team, raising £2,523.00.”
Starlight Hike
Following the river race, Sue Ryder is now inviting Bedfordians to register for the annual Starlight Hike on Saturday, 3 October 2026.
Sponsored by Concept Event Solutions, the evening walk at Everard Meadow offers participants a choice of a 5km or 10km route in memory of loved ones.
Activities begin at 5.30pm with live entertainment and a glow stick fitness dance session, before walkers set off along the course at 7pm.
Read: Michael R Peters raises over £600 for local charities at Bedford River Festival
Speaking about the upcoming night walk, Burr said: “Whether you have a personal connection to Sue Ryder or simply want to support a cause that matters to you and your community, this is your moment to make a difference.
“You’ll be part of a warm, joyful atmosphere filled with stories, reflection, laughter and the chance to feel part of something bigger.
“Last year, Sue Ryder provided more than 655,000 hours of expert care, including from Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, thanks to the support of people signing up to events like Starlight Hike. Every moment made a difference.
“By taking part and raising sponsorship, you’ll help ensure even more people receive the expert care and grief support they need because no one should face death or grief alone.”
Supporting Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger
Kelvin Hayward, operations director at Concept Event Solutions, said: “Our partnership with Sue Ryder and their flagship Starlight Hike event remains an important part of our annual calendar and we’re delighted to be involved once again.
“Each year, we are reminded of the remarkable commitment shown by the participants, whose enthusiasm and support for the event and the charity are truly inspiring.
“Their dedication reinforces the significance of this occasion and highlights the meaningful impact it has within the community.
“We look forward to contributing to another successful Starlight Walk and to continuing our valued association with Sue Ryder.”
Funds raised from both events support services including Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger.
Standard entry tickets for the Starlight Hike start at £20 per adult, which includes a t-shirt and medal, with a suggested fundraising target of £100.
