Thousands of rubber ducks race for charity

The annual duck race raises money for local charities

Thousands of rubber ducks have raced down a river in Herefordshire as part of an annual event.

The Big Hereford Duck Race, organised by the Hereford City Rotary Club, raises money for local charities.

About 6,200 ducks were released into the River Wye from the Hunderton Bridge on Sunday afternoon.

Each one was sponsored either by individuals or local businesses.

The event is organised by the Hereford City Rotary Club

Kerry Gibson-Yates, vice president of the rotary club, said: "The day was an amazing success thanks to the wonderful support of the Herefordshire public and amazing businesses within the county.

"It was fantastic to see so many people along the river bank cheering their ducks on.

"It's community spirit at its best.

"We look forward to supporting more local charities and good causes over the next year."

The race raises money for a number of local charities

Individuals could sponsor a duck for £2 while it was £30 for businesses.

The money raised by the event will go to a range of charities over the next year.

Charities supported over the last year include Herefordshire Home Start, Hereford Young Carers, Night Shelter for the Homeless, Marches Family Network, HPA Music Festival, Hinton Boxing Club, Hereford Community Farm, Save the Wye and Hope Scott House.