IF you're of a certain age with a great sense of fun, there's every chance you'll remember the popular raft races in Castle Park.
The event was a staple part of Colchester's social calendar, with teams entering homemade 'vessels' and having a splashing time making their way from Middle Mill Bridge to the weir just above East Mill (Marriage’s Mill, now converted into apartments) and then back to Middle Mill.
While competitive juices would no doubt have been flowing, for most if was just a bit of fun - a perfect way to cool down and share a giggle on a hot summer's afternoon.
The event was organised by the Colchester Lions Club and most of the pictures on this spread were taken in 1982.
They were donated to the Gazette by photographer Michael Emerson.
We also have two pictures from 1986, kindly submitted by former MP, mayor and council leader Sir Bob Russell, the current High Steward of Colchester.
As you can see, Sir Bob not only turned up to support the event but ended up taking part - and getting wet!
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