THE Annual Royal National Lifeboat Institution Blue Anchor To Minehead Raft Race takes place on Sunday and organisers are promising it will be the biggest and best yet. The race, which is now in its 27th year, attracts entries from all over the UK with competitors all attempting to complete the five mile course from Blue Anchor Beach to Minehead. In 2005 more than £11,000 was raised for RNLI funds with many local businesses sponsoring the cost of the grand firework finale. This year, the first rafts are due to leave Blue Anchor at 3.30pm arriving at Minehead harbour at around 4pm. There will be a host of activities planned to support the event including a bar, barbecue and disco courtesy of Tony and Sue Phillips of the Old Ship Aground and live bands. The West Somerset Railway has arranged a return rail link from Minehead to Blue Anchor at a subsidised rate of £2.50 for adults and £1.50 for children. The race will also be hitting the airwaves for the first time on the exclusive new radio station Raft Race Radio. The station will be broadcasting on 87.7 FM throughout the day giving visitors and locals alike race information, interviews and music from 12 noon until midnight. Meanwhile, Butlins has pledged a £1,500 donation and will allow raft race supporters access to the holiday centre to collect donations. The holiday giant has also offered the services of its Red Coats to help raise money on the day. Many local businesses have also pledged financial support. Race organiser Derek Williams said: "We are extremely grateful to Butlins for their donation and use of resources for this years race, while not forgetting the many local businesses who have supported us year in year out. "Without this financial support we would not be able to raise vital funds for the RNLI." Mr Williams said efforts were made each year to further improve the event and this year's added attraction will be the Raft Race Radio station. The raft race is the largest of its kind in the country and will culminating with a firework display on the harbour at dusk.