31 March 2010
The famous, much loved duck race organised by the police charity, Operation Goodwill, is to return to Sandybrook this weekend (3 April 2010).
In past years, the duck race has been a focal point for the charity, with scores of children and their families gathering by the stream to see if the yellow plastic duck they have sponsored makes its way quicker down the stream than the others, winning the lucky sponsor a prize.
The ducks, who have been enjoying a rest, have been carefully counted and are being brought back from retirement to race down the stream on Saturday 3 April.
This year, the fastest duck will win its ‘owner’ a 32” HD ready TV set, while the second is an Apple i-touch and the third is a Rotary watch kindly donated by Letto's Jewellers. There are many more prizes for ducks who don’t finish in the top 3.
Those who want to choose a duck to race are asked to pay £2 to sponsor it before setting it on its journey down the stream. All money raised will go to benefit local charity Autism Jersey, and tickets for the event are on sale only at AJ’s shop in the Parade, or are available from the police enquiry desk. Some tickets will be available on the day but it is recommended that Islanders buy their tickets in advance.
It is hoped that Islanders will turn out in force to support the duck race, which will be held at 2.30 pm on Easter Saturday (Saturday 3 April) at the Le Perquage walk, Sandybrook.
As well as the duck race, there will be lots of stalls to keep families entertained including a tombola, guess the weight of the cake, craft stalls, face painting and a treasure map.
On the day, there will also be a ‘lucky duck’ element for youngsters - anyone who brings their duck ticket with them on the day is guaranteed to go home with a chocolate egg or treat – but only if they bring their ticket to the race.
PC Pippa Le Mottee of Operation Goodwill said "We know that a lot of Islanders have missed the duck race, and we are delighted that it is making a comeback. In past years, the race has raised lots of money for local charities. We hope this year will be no exception, and look forward to seeing everyone at the event.
"Now that Operation Goodwill has been revitalised, we hope that the duck race at Sandybrook will, once again, become a firm fixture in the local calendar. We would like to thank all our sponsors who have kindly provided prizes and help, and the parish and States officials who have given their permission for the event to take place. Without their generosity, we couldn’t run this popular event."
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