MONMOUTH’S annual Raft Race still urges residents to raise funds for St David’s Hospice despite the event being cancelled due to low water levels.

Some kept their heads above water, some had to get wet!
Some kept their heads above water, some had to get wet in 2025! Action photos: Nick Hartland Oarstruck (Nick Hartland Oarstruck)

The annual Raft Race was a popular event many looked forward to in Monmouth. A team building exercise which enabled people to be a part of something memorable.

Each group was asked to make their own raft, with a suitable theme in hope that there raft will win the race on the River Wye to end at Tump Farm in Redbrook.

The race was planned for September 6 and although the event has been cancelled due to safety procedures to maintain public safety it has meant that St David’s Hospice Care will miss out on vital funding they had hoped to raise through the event.

Henson's Heroes at Monmouth Raft Race 2025
Henson's Heroes at Monmouth Raft Race 2025 (Tindle- Grace Price )

Although the rafts are not taking to the water this year, funds can still be raised for the charity who provide free, specialist care and support patients and their families across their local communities.

For anyone planning to take part, attend the event or cheer from the riverbank, consider donating what you can. Whether it’s £5, £10 or the cost of the refreshments you might have enjoyed on the day, every donation will help recover some of the income lost through the cancellation.

Any support will help ensure local patients and their families can continue receiving compassionate hospice care when they need it most.

Donations can be made on the Just Giving Page: The Raft Race can’t run – but we can still raise!

Or on their website: stdavidshospicecare.org/donate

Alternatively, cheques can be sent to:

Fundraising Department, Monmouth Raft Race, St David’s Hospice Care, Blackett Avenue, Newport.