Raft Race Marshals Revolt Over Spectator Abuse

The popular Boxing Day raft race in Matlock, Derbyshire, faces potential cancellation due to escalating spectator misconduct. Marshals from the Derbyshire 4x4 Response team have reported increased verbal abuse and threats, prompting them to reconsider their involvement. This volunteer group, crucial for event safety, is struggling with volunteer availability due to their primary commitment to emergency services.

Organizers are now urgently appealing for 20 to 25 new marshals to ensure the event can proceed, with current numbers only meeting half the required quota. In past years, spectators have been known to throw eggs and bags of flour at participants, who often retaliate with water pistols. However, organizers have warned that such actions, particularly throwing food, could lead to the permanent closure of the tradition.

This cherished event, started by scuba-diving friends, has raised over £150,000 since its inception. Despite its charitable purpose and the fun of participants in quirky costumes navigating obstacles, the increasing hostility from some audience members puts its future in jeopardy. Marshals will now be instructed to call the police rather than engage with disruptive spectators.