Dartmouth Rotary’s annual summer fete returned with 1,000 plastic yellow ducks taking centre stage in the internationally renowned duck race.

The popular event attracted a large crowd to Dartmouth’s Boatfloat on last Thursday afternoon (August 13), where the ducks were released into the water on the incoming tide.

The event was the culmination of activities which saw more than £3,000 raised for Rotary charities, including local, national and international good causes.

The day began with Dartmouth Town Crier Les Ellis officially opening the fete dressed in full regalia.

A thousand plastic participants left the starting line
A thousand plastic participants left the starting line (Dartmouth Rotary)

In his welcome, Les reminded everyone to take precautions for the heat as temperatures were set to peak during the day.

Local residents and visitors enjoyed mingling among the craft stalls and games and enjoyed homemade cakes, sandwiches, savoury bites and beverages on offer from the tea tent.

Younger visitors were particularly drawn to games including Splat the Rat and the challenging Race up the Mountain.

Hot food and cold drinks were also in demand at the barbecue station.

Tickets sold well for the raffle, where prizes were on offer from the Seahorse restaurant, Andria and Woodlands theme park.

Event organiser Peter Goldstraw said: “As always, the central focus was the internationally renowned duck race and tickets for the race were quickly sold.

“Dart Harbour Navigation Authority had laid out a course in the Boatfloat in an effort to control the unruly competitors.

“But as in previous years, the ducks ignored the influence of tide and wind to determine the direction in which they would race.

“The crowds cheered as excited youngsters and their families tried to encourage their ‘quacker’ entries, but as always the ducks made up their own minds as to where they would go.

“The heat began to tell and eventually the umpire had to terminate the race as the ducks were obviously tired and showing signs of stress. The crowd showed their support for this decision by cheering loudly and the three winners were awarded their cash prizes.”

Dartmouth Rotary President Geoff Hicks thanked wives and partners who had helped to make the event possible, as well as the Flavel Church, which supplied the tables and chairs.