Thousands are expected to enjoy a quacking day out along Spinningfields Left Bank tomorrow for the ultimate race along the river.
Forget London’s Oxbridge boat race, Manchester’s own River Irwell will host the city’s fifth annual rubber duck dash.
Everyone is invited along to enjoy a day of games, crafts, bouncy castles – and even a special screening of The Mighty Ducks – before the main event kicks off at 2pm.
All proceeds from the day will go towards children’s charity Brainwave, supporting the work they do helping children with disabilities achieve their full potential.
FEEDING FRENZY? Sale Shark rugby player Danny Cipriani along with team-mates Marc Jones, Dan Braid and Mark Cueto
Sale Shark rugby player Danny Cipriani along with team-mates Marc Jones, Dan Braid and Mark Cueto have been promoting the event, welcoming one giant duck to training sessions in preparation for the big day.
Corporate ducks have also been helping promote the race, with Better Bathroom’s special blue duck Howard flying across the city to wish Mancunians ‘good luck’.
Families will jump at the chance to buy their own duck to cheer on the day and awards will be given to the best decorated duck dashing down the river.
A sneak peek at the entrants so far gives us an impressive Gene Simmons duck, super-cool Spiderman and even a duck dressed like Coronation Street favourite Bet Lynch – so there will be some sights to see while standing on the sidelines.
The first five rubber ducks across the finish-line will win one of the exclusive prizes up for grabs, including: a Ted Baker handbag, meals at some of Manchester’s top restaurants and tickets for the Opera House pantomime.
The event is free to attend and all the festivities will begin at 11am with the nail-biting finale to follow three hours later.
Image courtesy of Tambako the Jaguar with thanks
