THEY could be branded bonkers, but 200 hardy souls did not care as they enjoyed a glorious mud bath jolly across the Teign.

They were taking part in the annual Red Rock Mud Race – the fifth year since it was resurrected – and organisers believe the Olympic effect was responsible for more interest than usual.

There was a record turnout of 200 people who plunged into the Teign near Coombe Cellars at low water on Sunday across to Red Rock, Bishopsteignton, and back again.

They 'swam' and sloshed through mud that, according to Liz Deane, of Haccombe and Combe Parish Council, the organiser, was 'gloopier than usual'.