MALDON Mud Race has attracted a new sponsor in the form of Essex & Suffolk Water.

The water company will sponsor the world famous event for the first time in 2018.

Each year more than 20,000 people flock to Maldon to watch around 300 brave competitors race across the mud of the River Blackwater.

This year’s event will take place on Sunday, June 10.

Maldon Mud Race Chairman, Brian Farrington said: “We are so delighted to have the support of Essex & Suffolk Water this year.

“The committee works hard to raise more than £50,000 with the help of companies across the region from this exciting fun race. This high profile support will help s continue to attract businesses on board and we can’t thank them enough.”

As well as sponsoring the event, the company will be entering a team who will raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MND).

John Devall, Water Director for Essex & Suffolk Water, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be supporting the Maldon Mud Race for the first time.

“Over the years the event has become synonymous with our region, with thousands of people turning out to cheer on the entrants as they make their way across the Blackwater.

“We will also be bringing along our engagement vehicle, Flo, on the day to talk to customers about the services we provide and about how we can help them save water and money on their monthly bills.”