Thousands turned up to watch and cheer on charity mud racers as they slogged through the 440m (1,440ft) stretch of the River Chelmer at low tide.

The annual Maldon Mud Race in Essex saw Vicki Riley claim the title of fastest woman, while first-timer Joe Griggs was the first man to cross the finishing line.

Most people managed to complete the task, but for a few organisers had to get ropes and small paddle boats to help get them out of the water after the tide started to rise.

Here are a few pictures of those plucky people, who helped raise some £40,000 for Essex charities.