CREWS who took part in the Great Waterside Raft Race in Hythe in 1998 had a splashing time in the annual charity event.

Inclement weather means that the RNLI has been forced to cancel the special day in Hythe this weekend, but the Echo has taken a look back at 20 years ago.

Ten rafts took place in the mile-long-dash from Hythe marina to the other side of Hythe Pier, cheered on by hordes of well-voiced spectators.

All the rafts completed the race, although The Flying Tackle manned by Esso Rugby Club dismantled and upturned the Lord Nelson raft while they engaged in a scrappy battle for last place.

Winners Canshe MK 3 put their success down to the amount of pressurised cider bottles that filled their raft.