Hundreds of rowers will take to the Thames this weekend for the prestigious Great River Race – the biggest event of its kind in Europe.

More than 300 crews from around the world, made up of both true racers and leisure oarsmen and women, will start at 10.40am tomorrow, Saturday, September 15.

Thousands of spectators will line the river between London Docklands and Ham to cheer the rowers along the 21-mile route.

They will be able to see colourful vessels, including the faster dragon boats and Celtic longboats, pass under Kew Bridge from about 1pm.

Families will be able to enjoy the great atmosphere at Richmond riverside, where the leaders will pass at about 1.30pm, before the hardy rowers draw on their last reserves for the final 10 minutes to race towards the finish line at Ham House.

The participants will be gunning for 35 different trophies, but everyone who takes part will be in for an enjoyable day because the event – which started in 1988 - traditionally attracts every level of competitor, including those who take part just for fun, fancy dress or to raise money for charity. 

Rowers will be able to soak up the party atmosphere, swap their stories and enjoy a well deserved drink on the riverside by the historic Ham House.

Visit greatriverrace.co.uk for more information.