A quacking day out sees thousands raised for charity
A PUB’S annual duck race has raised more than £6,700 for charity.
The 11th White Horse annual charity duck race was bathed in sunshine when the people of Birstall flocked down to the bank holiday extravaganza. Once all the funds had been totted up, a grand total of £6,767.89 was raised.
The main charity, #payitforward, will receive £4,007.39, with the remaining £2,760.50 being allocated to other local causes.
In all, 1,384 plastic ducks raced, and the winning duck was number 379, with two winners - Aaron Whitaker and Julie Miller - each receiving £100.
Charlotte Foy, of the White Horse, said: “This was the biggest duck race so far. It was amazing to see so many people come back and support us.
“This year’s event was outstanding, the weather was perfect, and the stalls, games and activities were bustling and the crowds along the towpath was a sight to be seen!”
Rosie Rollings, from #payitforward, said it had been a great experience to be involved in the duck race.
“The atmosphere was fantastic, and every stall-holder had a positive experience,” she said.
“It’s great when the community comes together. We look forward to supporting groups and individuals. We have received some requests and the admin team will be meeting very soon to discuss them.
“If anyone knows of any local people, voluntary groups or charities that require support or new equipment we’d be happy to consider them for a donation from our funds.”
Gemma Lawrenson, from Girlguiding in Birstall, said they made £633.50 across their stalls and the money will be split between Guides on various international camps.
Birstall United under 10s Foxes raised £237 which will enable about four children who meet eligibility criteria for free football to play and train for the whole of next season.
Riverside PTA raised just short of £400, ADHD solutions raised over £330, the Sea Cadets £145 and the Bark Foundation raised £200.
The Scouts received £142 in donations, the street party stall took over £300, The Boys’ Brigade raised £160 and, finally, the White Horse kicked off its fund-raising with Skydive for Birstall bags bringing in £213.