DOZENS of villagers in fancy dress raced against each other in wheelbarrows at an annual fundraising event.

More than 80 participants competed in Overton Wheelbarrow Race, cheered on by hundreds of people lining the streets to watch the spectacle.

The teams started in Pound Road last Friday, before making their way along a mile-and-a-half course, stopping at various pubs to down half a pint.

The race ended at Overton Recreation Centre, in Bridge Street, where prizes were awarded to the winning teams.

The quickest team to finish the course, in less than 20 minutes, was Sheep Dippers, consisting of Keith Locke and Kevin Hogan.

The best dressed pair award went to Karina Baugh and Donna Locke, who were dressed as Charleston flappers.

Awards were also given to a team of 101 Dalmatians for the best dressed largest team, which was jointly won by team Under the Sea, while the best dressed team prize went to The Hunt, captained by Gary Osmand and Darryl Taylor.

Gary Savory, chairman of Overton Football Club, who helped to organise the event, said: “The streets were lined with local residents who brought out their spare change to give to those taking part.

“The competitors are encouraged to stop and jangle their buckets. Most are there for a good time and to collect money for local sports.”

He added: “I’d like to thank Overton villagers for their support and to all the entrants, and thanks to the local pubs because they support it by putting on drink stops along the way.”

It is hoped that the event, organised by Overton Recreation Centre and Overton Football Club, will raise £1,200 which will be used for sports in Overton.