Swanage Rotary Charity Duck Race

Thanks for supporting this fun event as all funds go to Julia's House - Dorset's only childrens hospice.

Organiser David Huntley was quick to thank all those involved. "We decided to put the race on this year in aid of Julia's House as it's out chosen charity for the year" said David. "Having visited them recently and understood the fantastic work they do we are delighted to have raised over £1500 to support their work".

The race starts at the Conservative Club in Swanage where over 1600 plastic ducks are dropped into the Swanbrook river. they then follow the river underneath the town to emerge near the Mowlem as it enters the sea. The recent rain had ensured the Swanbrook had a good flow and the race was won in a record time.

Special mention must go the David Chalcraft and Neil Hardy for following the ducks under the town to ensure none of them try to hide en-route. "We were offered a lot of money to leave Neil under there until Christmas" said David. "But after due consideration we decided it was probably not a good idea as the lifeboat refused to rescue him". 

As entertaining as the race itself always is, many of the crowd stay to watch the intrepid team of Rotarians try to catch the duck before the make it to open water and freedom. This year was no exception but we are delighted that no ducks or Rotarians were harmed during the race.

Swanage Rotary President David Frankham thanked the team for all their hard work in selling the ducks over the bank holiday weekend and staging the race itself. "David Huntley and his team did a fantastic job" said David. "It was great to see so many people support the event and have such a good time whilst supporting Julia's House".