FUN-LOVING fundraisers will once again don their most colourful costumes at the return of Colchester's Panto Horse Derby.

Organised by Age Concern Colchester the annual bonanza brings together a range of good causes and willing runners for a race down the town's high street.

Last year 22 racers battled it out to be crowned the fastest horse in town, raising more than £9,000 for needy charities in the process.

David Robertson, manager of Culver Square Shopping Centre, always throws himself into the spirit of the event.

In 2018 he created a unique First World War memorial horse to celebrate the centenary of the Armistice and at the event's inaugural showing the year before he dressed himself up as a princess.

He said: "We have raised £600 for charity for the last two years and the team have been involved in building the most fantastic panto horse costumes.

"It is great fun, come along and join in and give something back at the same time."

READ MORE: Pantomime Horse racing to raise cash for Age Concern

Organisers are hoping the event's return will be bigger and better than ever before, and are hoping to raise more than £15,000 in total.

Simon Prestney, CEO of Age Concern Colchester, said: "I have never been involved in organising an event like this before and we are very grateful to the four Rotary Clubs of Colchester and our sponsors Lanswood Residential and Commercial Developments, John Fowlers Solicitors, John Ford Group, Lion Walk, Culver Square and OakPark Security for their support.

"We are delighted to hear that they are supporting us again this year allowing the event to be held.

"Last year the winner of best dressed was Girl Guides with LEPRA coming in a close second.

"The costumes were great and even the rain didn’t dampen our spirits for this great community event.

"We have moved it forwards to Bank Holiday Monday in August in the hope of improved weather this year.”

Registration for the Panto Horse Derby, which takes place on August 26, is now open.

Revellers who raise a certain amount of money for charity can receive a refund on the ticket cost after the event.

To book, visit http://tiny.cc/8wrc4y.