PERSHORE Phoenix paddlers took on one of their favourite events in the London Great River Race.

They improved on their time by three minutes from last year at the 21-mile race from Millwall Slipway to Richmond upon Thames to finish 10th fastest out of 329 boats.

Phoenix were put out on the water last and overtook hundreds of boats while paddling upstream to clock two hours 30 minutes 43 seconds.

The 18-strong team, featuring guests from Worcester and JLR, were third fastest out of seven dragon boats after being nudged out of second by Concrete Dragons from Holland by only 11 seconds.

For more on the Arden Sailing Club-based outfit, visit pershorephoenix.com or email phoenixdragonboat@hotmail.co.uk.