Friends, Romans and ducks… picture special of a race and a celebration in Alcester
DUCKS. Yes ducks. One thousand, two hundred of them in fact, racing along the River Arrow on Saturday (6th July) to raise money for Alcester Bunting and Lighting which looks after summer bunting and Christmas lights in the town.
The race had been brought forward by an hour to allow visitors get home in time to see the England v Switzerland match.
Despite this, and the weather, there was a good turnout to see duck number 487, named Quack of Dawn, win the day. In second place was No 1,042 with No 747 in third.
This is the group’s main fund-raising event of the year and raised nearly £2,500.
Chris Newitt, chair of Alcester Bunting and Lighting, said: “It was fantastic to see such a good level of support for the duck race again this year. We had a great turnout on the day despite the less than ideal weather conditions.
“All money raised will be used to continue to provide Christmas lights and bunting for the town. Congratulations to our winners.”
Meanwhile, a short distance away Alcester’s Roman Museum was celebrating its 20th anniversary with an open day and events for all ages.
About 350 people attended, including many children. Chair Susan Juned said: “It was a great day, despite the weather.
“The children really enjoyed the crafts, the dressing up and decorating the big display shield with coloured buttons. All enjoyed speaking to the re-enactors and many also sampled the refreshments provided by OrangeMabel.
“Our thanks go to everyone who made the museum possible 20 years ago and all the volunteers who have kept it running successfully ever since.
“Over the years we have hosted successful school visits due to our dedicated schools team. Our trustees have been a hard working group over many years and we are very grateful for their dedication.
“We had a wonderful day and are proud of what the museum has been able to achieve in highlighting an important part of the history of Alcester.”
