Lions Club put plans in place for annual Duck Derby

Organisers of this year's Duck Derby and Family Fun Day are encouraging charities to register for the popular fundraiser to be held at Ray Mill island in Maidenhead.

The event will see thousands of plastic ducks, sponsored by members of the public, released downstream into the Thames as they fight it out to float to the finish line.

The event, organised by The Lions Club of Maidenhead, begins at 1pm on Sunday, May 19 and is a prime opportunity for organisations to promote themselves and raise some funds for charity.

In its 29th year, the popular event is expected to attract more than 1,000 people to the island by Boulters Lock who can enjoy entertainment, refreshments and a spot of shopping.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of fairground attractions, the Lions ever-popular Fun Train and music from Cox Green School Jazz Orchestra.

The Duck Derby is a successful fundraiser often fetching more than £5,000 for local charities and good causes.

Lions spokesman Peter Skinner said:  "We have been organising the Duck Derby for many years so that it has become one of the best known fund raising events in the town."

He added: "It is specifically designed to help other charities, especially the smaller lesser known ones, and gives them an opportunity to raise much needed funds and awareness."

Tickets to ‘own’ a duck will be on sale around the town in the days preceding the event and also on the day of the race which will take place at 4.30pm.

To book a stall contact Trevor Tilbury at trevortilbury5@yahoo.co.uk or call 01628 637262.