DROITWICH Ferret Welfare is among several local charities to benefit from the new sport of ferret racing.

John Duggan, a professional ferreter and a keen supporter of the local ferret welfare, started racing his ferrets earlier this year.

John said: "At least four of the ferrets which race were once strays or unwanted pets and have been adopted from Droitwich Ferret Welfare. All the ferrets love racing down the pipes, everyone has fun and it raises much needed funds for local charities."

The ferrets line up in purpose built boxes and "race" down long pipes. The first ferret to completely emerge from the pipe - including the tip of the tail - is judged the winner. Sometimes ferrets run down the pipe, peep out of the end and then turn tail back up the pipe again, accompanied by supporters cheering them on and a lot of laughter.

John also provides lots of interesting facts about ferrets to make the event even more interesting

Now John and his ferrets are in demand at local events, such as private parties, open days, fetes, and club nights. For more information call John on 01905 454348.

Ferret fans can also indulge their passion this weekend, by getting along to a conservation day at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in Harborne.

Anne Robinson, secretary of Droitwich Ferret Welfare, said: "We are delighted and honoured to have been asked to support this event which promises to be a wonderful day out for the whole family."

Not only will there be illustrated talks on ferrets and lots of fun for the youngsters with free colouring sheets but an opportunity to meet some of the centre's ferrets. The ferrets will be working for conservation alongside other organisations representing bats, badgers and birds of prey to name just three.