After 35 successful Bath Tub races Shoreham and Southwick Round Table has reluctantly decided to pull the plug on its main fundraising event.
Last year’s Race saw the total proceeds for the charity top the milestone of £250 000, all of which has been channelled into local worthy causes year by year.
However, concerns over Health and Safety issues have forced the organising committee to discontinue the madcap race in which cast iron bath tubs are made “seaworthy” and rowed down a six mile course along the Adur River from Upper Beeding to the Adur Recreation Ground. Excessive alcohol consumption and injuries arising from the throwing of eggs and stones have contributed to the final decision to terminate the race.
Bath Tub Race Committee Chairman, Tony Jelliman, said, “This has been an excellent community event for Shoreham, and we’re grateful to the hundreds of tubbers, helpers and supporters who have made the race possible over the years – they and the organisers have performed a magnificent service and they can be proud of their achievements. It’s a whacky race which has generally been great fun, but increasing Health and Safety requirements, insurance rates and other problems mean that this kind of activity is no longer viable. It’s unfortunate, but that’s the way world is moving these days.”
Shoreham and Southwick Round Table Chairman, Michael Newbold, added, “The Table is still active and we will continue to find ways to support our local community and raise funds for good causes. If there’s anyone out there who wants to get involved in our Table, just email us at info@shorehamroundtable.co.uk.”
A comprehensive history of the Bath Tub Race can be viewed
here.
Press release available here.
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