Villagers ready for annual fundraising day of duck racing and fun runs

It all takes place in Wymeswold on Sunday May 3 with all proceeds distributed to local charities and voluntary groups and it is free to attend for all the family.

A five-mile Wymeswold Waddle running race and ‘Duckling Dash’ for youngsters take place in the morning, followed by the thrilling Duck Races on the River Mantle in the afternoon.

Starters orders for the Waddle will be at 10.30am, with the family Ducking Dash, which is open to juniors under the age of 15, at 11.30am and the duck racing starting at 12.30pm.

Duck Race organiser, Richard Bailey, said: "The Waddle and Duck Races are a great day out for all the family and every year it’s a pleasure to see so many smiling faces.

"The races, Tough Ducker, live music and drummers mean there’s something for everyone.

"It helps bring the village together and raises valuable funds for local good causes.”

The whole of Narrow Lane will be closed to traffic as the runners in the Wymeswold Waddle head off on the undulating out-and-back course to Six Hills during the event, which is licensed by UK Athletics and open to any runners aged 15 and over.

Attendees can bet on four duck races with the chance to win money by correctly backing the winning duck for each race.

New this year will be a themed 2026 World Cup race, where 46 ducks with flags for each nation, will compete for the top honours.

The ticket holder for the winning duck will receive two Ragdale Hall Spa vouchers.

There will also be the Wymeswold Pre-School Puddleduck Regatta and also the annual challenge between the employees of the various businesses in Wymeswold.

For children, there’s the ‘Tough Ducker’ challenges with obstacles to overcome for each age group.

Other attractions will include live music from Josh Kemp, entertaining interactive drumming sessions with Bloco Transcultural, information stands, a barbecue and funfair rides.

The Wymeswold Duck Races are organised by the Wymeswold Village Project, a village charity which distributes funds raised to village and local voluntary and charitable organisations, while the Wymeswold Waddle and Fun Run are run by the Wymeswold Running Club.