STAFF and parents at Queen's Park High School returned to the River Dee for the now-annual dragon boat race grudge match.

Temperatures were at an all-time high for the Queen's Park High School staff to face their nemeses on the water for the 2018 PTA Parents versus Staff Dragon Boat race.

Last year, the staff's winning streak abruptly ended after the parents stormed to victory, beating them in two out of three races.

This year, the staff were unshakable and determined not to be intimidated by the goading chants of the warrior dressed 'River Rats' (aka the parents).

In the first heat, it was clear that the staff needed to unify as a team as the River Rats' synchronised rowing glided them through the water at speed and they surged to the finish line, in front of the onlooking aghast staff!

The staff found their rhythm thanks to their student drummer to win the second match.

In the third and final race, both teams were celebrating as they each believed they would be crowned the champions. After a photo finish it was declared a dead heat.

The teams retired to the QPHS Boat House for a well-earned barbecue courtesy of the PTA and, although the staff felt they had been 'robbed', they graciously accepted the draw and shared the trophy and title with their rivals the River Rats.

Headteacher Lyndsay Watterson said: "The event is a testament to sportsmanship and comradery, and it epitomises the community spirit amongst the QPHS staff, students, and parents alike.

"We look forward to winning next year's race!"