PLANS are going ahead to hold the Devizes to Westminster canoe race next year, despite fears that the unprecedented suspension of this year's race had damaged the event's future.

Uppermost in the minds of the organisers has been the preparation of contingency plans to avoid a repeat of the dangerous situation when a crew was stranded on a weir at Old Ascot in the dark with a strong current running.

It was because of this that the organisers decided to stop the race, to the anger of those who had already paddled through the area and those who had been training for months to compete in the gruelling marathon.

The DW, as it is known, is always held at Easter April 13 to 16 next year with classes for a wide variety of boats and paddlers.

New for 2001 is the DW Endeavour a four-day event for senior paddlers which will allow overnight stops at Newbury, Marlow and Ham.

Although overnight stops have always been allowed within the race rules, it is hoped that this new class will attract a greater number of senior paddlers who will appreciate the greater camaraderie that will accompany a non-racing challenge.

Many thousands of pounds have been raised for charity over the 53 years the race has been going.

This year's official charity is the National Children's Homes.

The blue riband event remains the senior doubles racing class where crews strive to complete the 125-mile course as fast as possible.

Tactics play an important part in this class where the utmost physical fitness and stamina are required to tackle the various stages of the race.

The 54 miles of canal is tough with its many locks to be portaged lifting the canoe out of the water and round the obstacle and much of the 53-mile stretch of non-tidal River Thames from Reading down to the outskirts of London is often paddled at night.

Local organiser Sally Peake from Littleton Panell, whose husband Steve and son Owen have both completed the course, said: "This demands great concentration from already tired bodies to choose the right route along the ever-widening river with its huge weirs and to fight off the fatigue caused by the cold and wet.

"It can be a lonely time for paddlers and a time when support crews with warming food and drink together with vital words of encouragement can boost lagging morale."

The race is not known as the canoeist's Everest for nothing.

Details of next year's race can be obtained from Janice Begent on (0207) 620 0298 or visit the official website at www.dwrace.org.uk.

Sally and Steve Peake are happy to help potential paddlers with their plans and can be contacted on (01380) 818967.