A DUCK race to raise funds for St Richard's Hospice has been hailed a quacking success after raising £2,840.

The annual event, on Saturday and in association with Worcester Festival, took place along the River Severn in the heart of the city.

Those who took part were able to adopt their duck online or on the day at the quayside, thanks to a team of volunteers who helped out. Once the race began, there was much cheering as competition heated up for the individual waterfowl to cross the finishing line.

For the first time in its history, the race welcomed a host of companies who sponsored nine giant 32cm ducks.

The finale at the cathedral saw giant duck Wiggy, from Waldrons Solicitors, being crowned the corporate winner.

Jayne Sargeant, fundraiser at St Richard’s, said : “What a wonderful day we had on the river. Special thanks must go to Hereford and Worcester Fire Service for their fantastic support, providing two safety boats as well as promoting water safety during the event for our enthusiastic racers. Thanks also to Medi Events for first aid support and Gary Whenman for providing his voluntary photography services.”

All proceeds go to St Richard’s to help fund the charity’s care of patients with life-limiting illnesses and support their families.

The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Jabba Riaz, attended on the day and helped start the race on the city bridge as the ducks headed towards the water.

Jayne added: “The event is always such an enjoyable occasion and we are delighted to have raised such worthwhile funds for our care. Thanks to all those who took part."

St Richard’s provides free specialist palliative and end of life care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses and supports their loved ones. Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,000 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.

St Richard’s has launched the Build 2020 Appeal which aims to raise the final £1.4million needed to build a bigger hospice, enabling more patients and families to be cared for in Worcestershire.

The total cost for expanding and redeveloping the existing building in Wildwood Drive, Worcester, is £5.3million. For more information about St Richard’s Hospice visit strichards.org.uk