Threatened duck race saved by new organisers

The duck race has been a tradition in Wilberfoss for 40 years

An annual duck race in East Yorkshire has been saved after a new committee was formed to run it.

The Wilberfoss Duck Race, which has been a tradition for 40 years, will now be run by five local women following the resignation of the previous committee members.

The event involves hundred of rubber ducks being released into the beck in the village and racing to the finish line, with money being raised for local charities and community initiatives.

Sarah Coggins, co-chair of the new committee, said they wanted to get involved as they "couldn't let the duck race disappear".

She said: "It's such an important part of our village life, bringing everyone together for a day of fun and fundraising.

"We're excited to build on its past successes and make this year's race the best yet."

In May 2024, the race was postponed while East Riding of Yorkshire Council carried out flood defence work on the beck.

It was rescheduled for September, but did not go ahead as the water was not high enough.

When the members of the organising committee resigned, the future of the race looked uncertain.

'Brimming with enthusiasm'

However, a group of five mums from the village came forward to take over.

They say the new committee is "brimming with enthusiasm and fresh ideas, committed to preserving the race's legacy while injecting new energy into the event."

Co-chair Liz Comer-Foley said they were relieved the event would no longer face the threat of being cancelled altogether.

She said: "We've been working hard behind the scenes to ensure everything is in place for a fantastic day.

"We're so grateful for the support we've already received from the community."

This year's Wilberfoss Duck Race will take place on Sunday 11 May. The event will begin at 13:00 BST with the first race starting at 14:00.

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