CHEW Magna’s annual Duck Race returned for a quackers day of community fun and friendly competition.

More than 1,000 rubber ducks were launched into the river on Saturday, May 9 with a record number of spectators lining the banks to cheer the ducks on their way.

In the public race Mara. T’s duck raced ahead to claim first place with a top prize of £100, while the business race trophy was awarded to Cherry Tree Estates after a closely fought contest between local organisations and sponsors.

The ducks make their way down river as crowds line the banks to watch their steady progress.
The ducks make their way down river as crowds line the banks to watch their steady progress. (Chew Magna Society)

A record number of more than 150 ducks entered into a separate Decorated Ducks competition, sponsored by the Pet Hub, with outstanding entries including a Traitors’ duck, ‘Claudia Quackleman’, a Queen ‘Bohemian-Quacksodie’, and even a David ‘Quackenborough’.

Alongside the racing action, visitors enjoyed a lively atmosphere on the streamside with refreshments, music from the Congresbury Brass Band, and duck-themed games for all ages.

What would a decorated duck race be without a David Quakenborough for his 100th Birthday.
What would a decorated duck race be without a David Quakenborough for his 100th Birthday. (Chew Magna Society)

Chair of the Chew Magna Society, Jacqui Cozens, said: “We love this event.

“It is a real highlight in our events calendar.

“The community spirit is always tremendous and seeing everybody’s happy faces as they cheer on their rubber ducks to the finish.

“We were thrilled to have sold so many ducks this year, the event is drawing in more entries every year.

“We are so grateful to all the wonderful local businesses and everybody who came along to support the event.

“A special thank you also goes to the Pet Hub for sponsoring this year’s Decorated Ducks competition, which was a key highlight of the day.”

A class for business ducks fielded a record number of entries for a closely fought race.
A class for business ducks fielded a record number of entries for a closely fought race. (Chew Magna Society)

After the races, the society hosted an afternoon tea in the village hall for the over-70s in collaboration with Chew Chat, with refreshments and a singer performing springtime hits.

The next Chew Magna Society date for your diary is the ‘Party in the Paddock’ on Sunday, July 12.