Crowds gather for Newbury Duck Race as hundreds of ducks take to the canal

Victoria Park was busy on Sunday afternoon as the Newbury Duck Race returned, bringing plenty of people out to line the canal and watch the action unfold.

The event, organised by the Lions Club of Newbury, saw hundreds of yellow plastic ducks launched into the Kennet & Avon Canal, making their way from Newbury Lock down towards Victoria Park.

With the race setting off mid-afternoon, people gathered along the route to follow the ducks’ progress before heading into the park to see which ones would cross the finish line first.

Families, friends and local groups turned out in good numbers, with plenty of people backing their ducks and others just enjoying the atmosphere along the towpath and in the park.

This year’s race raised around £2,000 for the Lions Club’s welfare fund after all of the ducks were sold, with strong support from across the community.

Prizes on the day went to Olivia, who took first place, followed by Paulo in second and Pauline in third.

Volunteers played a big part in keeping things running smoothly, including members of Newbury Canoe Club, who were out on the water helping to retrieve the ducks once the race had finished.

The event was also supported by local businesses including The Rectory Clinic, along with The Ugly Duckling and The Lock Stock & Barrel in Newbury, who helped with ticket sales.

With another strong turnout and plenty of support, the duck race once again brought people together for a relaxed afternoon in the town.