THE Canis Major Newfoundland Water Rescue display team will be making a splash at Northwich River Festival this weekend.

The web-footed canines will be put through their paces as part of the third annual festival, which is set to attract thousands of visitors to the town on July 13 and 14.

As well as the dogs, visitors can enjoy a return of the spectacular Dragon Boat racing on Saturday, and the hilarious Raft Racing on Sunday afternoon.

Northwich Guardian:

Mid Cheshire Scouts will also be competing in their River Races on Sunday morning, and to finish the festival in style will be the famous Ducks on The Dane charity duck race, when thousands of plastic ducks are released onto the River Dane.

The whole event is being organised by volunteers Northwich Rotary Club – who aim to promote the use of the two rivers that flow through the town – as well as raising money for the festival’s nominated charity Cheshire Without Abuse.

Northwich Guardian:

Festival chairman, Rotarian John Walton, said, “There really is everything at the festival to ensure a fun time for all the family.

"As well as the activities on the water – which also include stand-up paddle boarding and wheelchair-accessible boat trips – we are delighted to welcome back the Liverpool Pirate Brethren and Paperwork Street Theatre.

“All this, plus live music in Barons Square, a climbing wall and a children’s fun fair, is certain to keep people entertained.

"We are also well supported with charity and trade stalls on both days to complement the town’s shops and Saturday’s artisan market.

Northwich Guardian:

“We expect most people will want to make a day of it, so there is free, all-day parking at Verdin Park, which will be sign-posted from all major routes."

Visitors are also advised to buy a Lucky Programme, which not only gives details of what’s happening and when, but also offers some great prizes, including a week’s Eurocamp holiday.

More information can be found at northwichriverfestival.org.uk where you can also buy tickets for the duck race.