The Chester Duck Race was back last weekend and the event was bigger than ever. This year marked the 8th Duck Race after a 2 year break and the event was a huge success. Hickory’s kindly sponsored the event having been involved in the Duck Race since 2013.
Commenting on the event, Renray Healthcare , said: “we are thrilled to support such an important charity with our entrant this year. The annual duck race has become an institution in itself and brings the whole community together. May the best duck win!”
The sun was shining as all decorated ducks were on display for the afternoon. There were some great entries this year including a number of Queen Elizabeth’s ahead of the Platinum Jubilee later this year. The charity team ran fundraising stalls including name the duck, hook a duck and a colouring competition. A total of 25 fantastic volunteers helped on the day to raise over £1,000 for the Blue Skies Balcony appeal.
DJ Ian Gibbons and Dee 106.3 Radio Gavin Matthews compared the race which launched at 3pm. The ducks reached the finishing line thanks to the amazing work of Queens Park Boat Club, a group of Chester Paddle Boarders and ChesterBoat.
The Lord Mayor of Chester Cllr Martyn Delaney attended the event to judge the winners of Best Dressed & Best Celebrity Lookalike. Winners of all four categories were announced shortly after the race and all received their trophies on the Band Stand. Co-Op Great Sutton Madam Quackers won Fastest Duck in the race, Special Needs Care won Best Celebrity Lookalike, Best Dressed was awarded to Peacock Garage and the Facebook Favourite vote went to Griffiths & Armour who donated their duck to Meadow Community Primary to decorate on their behalf.
Nicola Stubbs, Corporate and Events Fundraiser, said: “It was great to bring the Duck Race back to Chester and the sun was shining as it always is on the day. This year we received a mass amount of support from numerous businesses around the North West and we are extremely grateful to each one for helping us to raise over £21,000 for the Blue Skies Balcony appeal.”
If your business would like to support the Blue Skies Balcony appeal please contact Nicola on n.stubbs@nhs.net or call 01244 364341.
