THE annual children’s duck and model boat race took place last weekend at the Joey the Swan Recreation ground in Wistaston.

The 19th annual event was officially opened by Wistaston Rose Queen, Lucy Rowland, and her attendant Charlotte Shaw on Saturday, September 6.

49 model boats were entered into the children's model boat race and 874 duck race tickets were sold – the largest number in recent years.

Hundreds of people attended the event, helping to raise £730, which will go towards the modernisation of the disabled toilet at the Wistaston Memorial Hall and community centre in Church Lane.

Event organiser, John White, said: “This was another successful community enterprise for Wistaston. “The Memorial Hall's officers worked so hard to run the event and people who visited were most generous to buy so many tickets.

“I was pleased to hear that the stall holders and charities did well. The children were excited and eager to see their boats in action.

“It was a quacking great top of the bill success. We were fortunate with the weather. So many people helped to set up and take down the equipment; we thank them all.

“The parish council and conservationist, Dave O’Hara, had prepared the course. We can't wait for next year’s event, when we will celebrate twenty years of ducking and diving – we must be quackers."

Children's Model Boat Race Best designed boat: Rebecca Jones. Runners up: Jess Edwards, Naomi Dean.

Children's Model Boat Race: Alex Huxley with boat The Green Creeper. Runners up: Charles Calder, Chloe Brereton, Daniel Fowler.