But the Environment Agency is urging spectators to leave their flour filled plastic bags and other missiles at home.

In previous years, spectators to the popular event have thrown eggs, flour, plastic or paper bags, and other products at the race rafters from various points along the 3.5 mile course of the race into the River Derwent, which poses a real threat to the environment and wildlife.

Paul Reeves, Environment Officer at the Environment Agency, said:

Whilst we realise the Matlock raft event is an important social event for the area, we are appealing to the many spectators to spare a thought for the local environment by not throwing flour-filled plastic bags or other objects at the raft racers and into the water.

If plastic or paper bags enter the watercourse, they pose a real threat to local wildlife and in previous years there have been sightings of water birds near the floating flour bags following the Boxing Day event.

Whilst we are happy for the event to go ahead, we are strongly encouraging spectators to enjoy the Raft Event without endangering the environment.

Historically the Matlock Bath Boxing Day raft event has attracted a large number of local residents as well as visitors from further afield, which has a positive impact on the local economy. The event also raises funds for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).