MORE than £7,000 has been raised for the RNLI at Maldon’s annual row and gig race.

Now in its 40th year, the race took place on New Year’s Eve with 42 crews taking to the water.

Organised by Maldon Little Ships Club, the event saw four man rowing gigs take part in a six-kilometre route while smaller boats headed to Fullbridge before returning to Hythe Quay.

The fancy dress Knox Maritime trophy went to the Poldark crew.

In total, £7,700 was raised for the RNLI.

The Basin Oars ladies team raised £5,000 while the Poldark crew and Maldon Gig Rowing Club raised an impressive £680 and £340 respectively.

Organiser John Rogers said “We are very pleased with the amount raised and everyone who rowed enjoyed a fun work out on the river in front of the two to three thousand appreciative spectators.

“The event is only made possible with the support of Blackwater SC and Maldon YC for providing escort boats and steam launch Sea Otter for her role in escorting the gigs on their longer course.”

He added: “A huge team of Maldon Little Ships Club members are needed to run the sponsored row and we would like to thank all those who support the event either on or off the water, the spectators who turn out to watch and the encouragement given by Nigel Harmer, the Maldon District Council river bailiff.”