The banks of the River Irwell in Manchester will welcome a colony of rubber ducks for the seventh consecutive year later this month, all in the name of Brainwave.
Brainwave works to bring improvements to the lives of children with physical, sensory, learning, cognitive and behavioural difficulties.
The date and time are set and the feathers are fluffed – 2pm on March 25 (Good Friday) is race-time.
Entry is free, although a donation is expected from those entering the race, starting from £1.
Jenna Gibson, project manager for the event stated: “Creating a family-inclusive event is important to us as there isn’t a lot for families to do within the city centre and we hope the duck race offers something for everyone.
“As always we are really excited for this year’s Duck Race not only because it’s a great day and raising funds for an amazing charity but because it’s the events seventh consecutive year.
“We are incredibly lucky that we have the support of the Manchester crowd come rain or shine meaning we have been able to grow the event each year and even be recognised as a tourist attraction within the North West.
“It’s important that we continue this growth to ensure The Brainwave Centre can carry on with the remarkable work that they do for families and children.
The all-inclusive nature of this charity funding event draws in a diverse crowd, bringing out both the fun-loving and competitive natures in a whole host of Mancunians, who have taken to the event, well, like a duck to water.
Spinningfields will host a huge range of activities, starting at 12pm, including film screenings, a petting zoo, face-painting and fairground rides.
Delicious street food will be provided by The Kitchens as well as numerous on-site restaurants and kiosks for fairground treats.
An estimated 15 thousands of people flocked to last year’s event, with 6,000 small ducks sold and an additional 62 in the corporate race in which companies can decorate their own larger duck.
A giant inflatable duck will take up residency on Hardman Boulevard, provided by sponsor, Bathroom Takeaway.
Brainwave set up their North West base in Warrington in 2009, adding a sensory garden to their facilities in 2012 which allows children the fun of exploring a range of different smells and sights whilst also stimulating co-ordination and confidence.
For information about Brainwave, click here.
Image courtesy of Glyn Lowe, via Flickr, with thanks
