MORE people than ever before turned out for Swindon Old Town Rotary Club’s 10th annual duck race.

More than 8,000 ducks were launched into the River Ray from the Running Horse bridge, off Wootton Bassett Road, yesterday.

Hundreds turned out for the race and fairground attractions which filled Westcott Recreation Ground from 1pm.

Rotary president Stewart Bell, who stands down from his post next month, said: “I think it is the biggest it has ever been. We have certainly sold more ducks than ever before. We have 6,500 last year and thought that was good so to sell 8,231 this time round is fantastic.”

Last year’s event raised £11,500 for Rotary charities with this year’s takings going to Shelterbox, Swindon MS Therapy Centre and CALM, a charity supporting children with cancer or leukaemia.

Richard Crowley, of CALM, said: “This is the fourth year Swindon Old Town Rotary Club has supported us through the duck race and we remain incredibly grateful for the contribution they make to the cause.

“Part of the support we provide is the provision of two static caravans where parents can have a break away with their child during what is a very difficult time.

“We try to change the caravans every three years to keep them looking nice, so the money donated from the duck race will really help with continuing that.”

The sun may have kept a low profile but that did not stop people of all ages from sprawling out on the grass and tucking into hotdogs and burgers.

Debbie and Ray O’Grady, from Rodbourne took children Heather, 10, and Conner, 11, along to the event.

“I think we have come every year,” said Debbie.

“It is a good community event and I think a lot of people support it because of the charities involved. I’m glad the weather was reasonable too. I have been here some years and been shivering under an umbrella.”

Rotary member Mike Dunn, said: “It is nice to have a fine day for the duck race. In years past we have had real ducks splashing about on the field where we hold the event so a bit of dry weather was very welcome.”

Swindon Old Town Rotary branch are looking for new members. The group holds a breakfast meeting at 7.30am every Wednesday at the Kings Arms in Wood Street, Old Town.