A HILARIOUS cardboard boat race is returning for a fourth time to raise money for good causes.

The event, sponsored by Cumbria firm Progression Solicitors, was officially launched at the Low Wood Bay Marina on Windermere. 

The Low Wood No Wood Cardboard Boat Race will take place in May. 

As part of the fundraiser, teams will build and race their cardboard creations at the same venue, all in the name of charity. 

Progression, which has offices in Ulverston, Windermere, Grange and soon Barrow, has sponsored and helped organise the event since it began in 2012. 

"As a local business with offices across the South Lakes and Furness Peninsula, we feel this is our way of giving back to communities that have supported the firm over the last ten years," said Solicitor Janett Walker. 

"We would urge other local businesses and community groups to get a team on the water and make the most of this fantastic area we live in whilst team building with their staff or friends, and of course, getting very wet." 

If that doesn't convince people to get involved, perhaps the names of local charities supported this year will. 

All money raised will go to St Mary's Hospice and The Calvert Trust, both of which have touched many people.

"Keeping the charities local is key to us," said local Councillor Ben Berry, who first had the idea to run the event. 

The launch last Thursday was lots of fun for anyone who attended, with "HMS Wonky" taking to the water with Cllr Berry (AKA "Commodore Barry) at the helm, pitted against fondly named "Sea Monster". 

The Low Wood No Wood Cardboard Box Race takes place on Saturday 14 May, and although the official launch was only five days ago, the popularity of the event is clear.

Around 10 teams had already signed up prior to the launch. 

A family day out with laughs is guaranteed, and the event will certainly make a splash. 

For more information and how to enter a team, visit www.cardboardboatrace.co.uk.