CROWDS went quackers for a duck race which went swimmingly at last after wet weather caused a delay earlier in the year.

Pershore Duck Race took place on the River Avon by the town's Riverside Centre today, helping to feather the nest and whet the appetite for Pershore Carnival tomorrow.

The duck race had been due to take place at Easter but the wet weather forced organisers to postpone it due to the waterlogged field and high river level.

This time, however (and despite Met Office predictions for thunderstorms), the sun shone for the race as crowds in their hundreds lined the Avon to watch the ducks. 

Across three races there were around 600 ducks in the river with the winner of each race getting £50. Tickets cost £2 and those who entered had a chance to win £50 for first place, £20 for second and £10 for third.

The race itself got off to a slow start because of the somewhat languid flow of the Avon but the ducks picked up the pace nearer the finish line for a photo finish.

Worcester News: POPULAR: Tim Dance, chairman of Pershore Carnival, got into the spirit at the Pershore Duck Race which had been delayed because of the wet weather at Easter POPULAR: Tim Dance, chairman of Pershore Carnival, got into the spirit at the Pershore Duck Race which had been delayed because of the wet weather at Easter (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

The winners of the first race were a family from Pershore - Matt McLatchy, 32, partner Emma Davis, 31, and their children Mya, three, and Ellie, two.

Tim Dance, chairman of Pershore Carnival, got into the spirit of the day by dressing as 'Bill the Duck', a mascot for the race.

Worcester News: BOAT: The ducks were dropped off by the crew of a flood rescue boat before the current took them down towards the finish line BOAT: The ducks were dropped off by the crew of a flood rescue boat before the current took them down towards the finish line (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

Mr Dance said the duck race helped raise money for Pershore Carnival which in turn raised money for charity. One of the popular activities was the bouncy castle - £1 for five minutes.

But other events included hook a duck and a chocolate tombola and people can tuck into burgers and ice cream.

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Mr Dance said: "Thank God the weather is nice. It's really a day for the kids. That's our aim. We normally get around 5,000 people for the carnival itself. Let's hope it's good weather like today."

The carnival itself took place in Abbey Park, starting at 10am with a procession through the town starting at noon on a 'musicals' theme. 

Other highlights at the carnival on Bank Holiday Monday included a farmers' market, craft stalls, food and drink, have-a-go at sports, blacksmith demos, a 'fun dog show', a funfair, go karts, pony rides, circus skills, Punch and Judy and face painting.