Bodfari duck race to raise Bank Holiday cash for charity

Aug 13 2008 By David Simister

BODFARI residents are hoping for a quacking good Bank Holiday when they unleash dozens of ducks onto the River Wheeler for a village charity race.

The Bodfari Duck Race, now in its ninth year, will see wildfowl of the plastic variety being raced against one another in what organisers say will be a fun event for all the family.

"It may not be Ascot or the Grand National, but the competition and the rivalry is equally as fierce as people follow the progress of the duck they’ve placed their bet on down the river, urging them on to win" said organiser Dee Jones.

"Miss it at your peril. It’s great fun whether you’re young or old. Come and sample a simple country pleasure and help a worthy cause while you do."

The first race starts on 5pm on Saturday on Bank Holiday Monday [August 25] from the rear of the Downing Arms pub, and will continue 50 yards downstream. A barbecue will be throughout the races and bets cost £1 per duck, with proceeds going towards funding future village events.

For more information, contact Dee Jones on 01745 710495.