CLOUDS of flour filled the air and raft crews had to work hard to keep afloat under the constant bombardment from onlookers at Lynmouth's Raft Race.

The good-natured pelting tested the sea-worthiness of the various craft and skill of the crews as they dodged flour bombs and raced to be the first home, at the annual event organised by the Lyn Lions.

Rafts had been paraded to the water's edge prior to the race, while Lions busily sold flour bombs to the eager spectators lining the harbour.

Sadly, for one crew at least, it was a short race.

But the Lynton Youth Football Club's Punks still won a prize — for being the first to sink.

Lion Brian Woods said: "They sank almost immediately, at the start of the race."

First home were last year's victors, the White Van Men, who picked up the winners' commemorative shield and medals.

The best dressed award went to Thunderbirds One which featured Lady Penelope and her chauffeur, Parker in a Rolls Royce which arrived at the waterfront and was pared down to a more sleek craft for the race.

Rivals on Thunderbirds Two got the prize for most sponsorship raised.

The prize for the best constructed craft went to Dad's Army, who, despite taking on copious amounts of water, used bicycle power in their hilarious effort to make it home.

Brian said: "We'd like to thank the crew of Thunderbirds One, who returned their £200 prize money to the Lions and Dad's Army who returned half of their £200 prize."

He said that money raised from the event was still being counted, but through Lions would go towards local charities and good causes, with some going into the Lions International fund.

"And because we are such a small club, we would like to thank the Lions from South Molton, Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, and Bideford who came along to help us. We couldn't have organised such a big event without them."

Other thanks went to Ashley Clarke for manning the safety boat and to the crews of the Ilfracombe and Minehead lifeboats who both attended.