Going quackers for charity race

Local organisers at the launch of the duck race

PLASTIC ducks are under starter's orders to raise thousands for charity.

The Old Town Rotary Club has launched its eighth annual duck race by putting thousands of the yellow plastic racers up for sale.

The ducks will be on sale at the Nationwide HQ in Pipers Way. The building society sponsors the event.

Michelle Leighton, Nationwide communities and environmental affairs manager, said: "It's a fun way to raise money for charity. The money collected this year will go towards a children's cancer charity.

"It's a great way for the community to come together and all get involved. We hope as many people as possible will go out and buy a plastic duck and take part for a good cause."

Money raised will go to the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Movement (CALM) as it did last year, when £10,000 was collected.

It is an independent local charity, caring for the needs of families within the Swindon and Marlborough NHS Trust.

Races have taken place for the last seven years and have generated much-needed income for charities.

Last year's event saw 6,000 ducks bought by people across Swindon and 75 larger drakes bought by businesses - a record number.

First across the finish line last year in the duck race was Mr Archard, of Castle Eaton, and in the drake race for businesses the winner was Barnes Coaches.

This year's event takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, May 26, from 10am to 4pm, on the River Ray, opposite the Running Horse pub, Wootton Bassett Road. Each yellow duck costs £1 and the race will take place at 3.30pm.

For more information, call 01793 495206.