CROWDS turned out in their droves as competitors got wet and wild at the return of the Finchingfield three-legged race.

A long-standing tradition in the village, the race was brought back in 1998 after a break and now runs every year.

The event sees teams of two tied to each other before completing a circuit around the village, drinking from all three village pubs and wading through the pond twice.

Halstead Gazette: WATER RUN: A unicorn pair take on the pondWATER RUN: A unicorn pair take on the pond (Image: N/A)

There are also two children's races on the day, as well as stalls and other activities.

The race, organised by Finche Community Group, raises money for youth activities and equipment in the parish.

This year, the group is working towards building a BMX track for the village.

Halstead Gazette: ON YOUR MARKS: Ducks are poured into the pondON YOUR MARKS: Ducks are poured into the pond (Image: N/A)

Halstead Gazette: QUACKING MAD: The duck raceQUACKING MAD: The duck race (Image: N/A)

Event spokesman Lee Rider was delighted with the event’s success.

He said: “The whole day was a huge success - it was a great crowd, the weather was kind and everything ran smoothly.

“We are still counting the money raised, but it might just be the best one yet.”

This year there were 15 adult teams who took part, 19 in the under-eights race and 13 in the over-eights.

Halstead Gazette: LOOKING GOOD: Teams were dressed in whacky and wild outfitsLOOKING GOOD: Teams were dressed in whacky and wild outfits (Image: N/A)

Mr Rider added: “I think it’s so popular because it is just really fun. People like these big events where everyone can come out and enjoy themselves.

“This year we had lots of great outfits, and the best-dressed winners were the Brits Abroad, which were two lads with straw hats, Hawaiian shirts and pink inflatable flamingos.”

Halstead Gazette: TEAM OF FOUR: The Brits Abroad were voted the best-dressedTEAM OF FOUR: The Brits Abroad were voted the best-dressed (Image: N/A)

Halstead Gazette: ALL SMILES: A tiger team pictured on the dayALL SMILES: A tiger team pictured on the day (Image: N/A)

The winners of the race were two girls who are also preparing to run the London Marathon tied together.

The race was originally due to take place two weeks earlier but was postponed due to the Queen’s death.

Mr Rider said: “There was a slight concern after the postponement because people’s plans change, the weather could have done anything.

“Thanks to everyone who was involved with the day and those who took part and came along.

“A couple of stall holders and a runner pulled out, but others stepped in, so it didn’t really affect us.

“We raised some good money and there is hope we can build the BMX track by Christmas next year.”