Bibury Duck Race 2008

26 December - The Bibury Duck Race 2008 is set to be firm family favourite Christmas event for another year running. So wrap up warm and sing your cheers when the festivities get underway in aid of local charities.

Joining the likes of the annual Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling and Bourton-on-the-Water Football in the River, the annual Bibury Duck Race is another of the county’s more unusual traditions which pulls in the crowds from far and wide.

Every year at 11am on Boxing Day the small, picturesque and tranquil village of Bibury is transformed as thousands of spectators wrap up in the their woolly hats and scarves to gather along the River Coln which runs through the village.

While it’s hard to imagine what could attract so many people away from the comfort of their homes – with warm fires to sit by, Christmas presents to enjoy and Quality Street sweets to indulge in – it soon becomes clear when as many as 100 decoy ducks are released to race down the river in a unique spectacle.

While the history of the Bibury Duck Race is unknown, the family-favourite tradition dates back at least a good few decades, with regulars and newcomers turning up to cheer on the ducks. And, as well as being a great spot of festive fun, each of the ducks can be sponsored for £10 – with the person who’s duck crosses the finish line first getting to nominate which charity they would like all of the day’s proceeds to go to.

While the nearby The Swan Hotel has 21 ducks reserved each year – one for each of its rooms – tickets to sponsor the ducks are quickly snapped up, available from organisers standing on the bridge just before the race.

Even if you don’t get chance to cheer on your own duck as it bobs its way down the river, there will be plenty of mulled wine, mince pies and a truly festive spirit making this a not-to-be-missed Gloucestershire tradition.

Event: Bibury Duck Race 2008
Venue: River Coln in Bibury
Date: Friday 26 December 2008
Times: The race kicks off at 11am
Tickets: There is no charge for spectators. Ducks can be sponsored for £10 each, with tickets are available on the day and proceeds being donated to local charities.

SoGlos.com
4 November 2008