Worcestershire residents are being encouraged to take part in a spot of ducking and diving this summer.
St Richard’s Hospice has announced details of its annual duck race which will take place on Saturday 12 August. The event, which is in association with Worcester Festival and sponsored by Puddle Ducks, will start at 2pm from Worcester Bridge, South Quay and end in a beak-biting finale at the Cathedral.
Those taking part can adopt their very own waterfowl either on the day at 11am on the quay side – and then cheer it on as it races against other ducks down the river to the finish line – or, for the first time, online by visiting www.strichards.org.uk/duck-race.
Small ducks can be adopted for £5, large ducks cost £7 and a limited number of fancy dress ducks will be available at £25. High Street vouchers are offered as prizes for the first ducks in the three categories over the line. All proceeds go to St Richard’s Hospice to help fund the charity’s care of patients with life-threatening illnesses and support for their families.
Jayne Sargeant, Fundraiser at St Richard’s Hospice said: “This event is a fun and fabulous one where competitors get to go quackers as they root for their very own duck! The event enjoys a real carnival atmosphere and last year we welcomed hundreds of competitors and onlookers.”
“We’d like to encourage as many people as possible to sponsor online in order to avoid the crowds on the day.”
Last year the event raised an impressive £1,625 for the hospice.
Kate Attwood, Franchise Owner at Puddle Ducks, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring St Richard’s Hospice annual duck race for the fourth year running.
“It is always a fantastic event which brings out the competitive but fun side in all those taking part!”
All the ducks will be removed from the river at the end of the race.
St Richard’s Hospice provides free specialist palliative care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses and supports their loved ones. Each year the hospice team supports over 3,000 patients, family members and bereaved in Worcestershire.
The hospice strives to provide the best medical, practical, emotional and social support they can to help people live life to the fullest, as independently as they can, for as long as they can.
St Richard’s is an independent charity and is grateful for all donations to help it continue its work.
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