CLAW have quacked this fund-raising lark
PATRICK JACK
ALMOST £2,000 was raised from the annual New Year’s Day Duck Race at Cowm Reservoir.
The traditional Whitworth event saw hundreds of people brave the cold weather to take part or spectate.
The race was organised jointly by Whitworth Town Council’s Tourism and Leisure Committee and CLAW (the Community Leisure Association of Whitworth).
Coun David Chorlton, chairman of the Tourism and Leisure Committee, said the event is a popular one in the Whitworth calendar and has always been a great success.
Coun Chorlton said: “A team of six spent two and a half hours clearing the overflow of weeds and debris a few days before to allow the ducks and water to flow better and on the day a combined effort with volunteers from Whitworth Town Council’s Tourism and Leisure Committee and CLAW made the event run smoothly.
“We had around 400 to 500 spectators on the day which considering how cold it was wonderful to see.”
The mayor of Whitworth Coun Lynda Barnes was there to start the race, which saw nearly 2,000 ducks entered - at £1 a go.
Ducks are ‘sponsored’ for £1 each with the winning ducks earning their owners £100, £75 and £50 each. The last duck across the line takes home £10.
All the money raised is split equally between the council and CLAW, which organisers say is all re-invested in future events and projects.
The race was broadcast live by Rossendale Radio, with Whitworth Water Ski Centre providing hot
●● Spectators cheer on the ducks as they approach the finish and cold drinks and food on the day.
Coun Chorlton added: “The ducks are now back at a secret training ground where they will rest, train and prepare for the 2021 event. If anyone is interested in helping at events that the TLC host they can email me at cllrdchorlton@gmail.com .
“Even if it’s once a year it will be appreciated as we are always looking for marshals and helpers at all our events and parades.”