FOR the second year in a row, Bewdley's annual "new year's day" duck race will take place on Easter Monday.

Registration opens from 10am next Monday with Bewdley Mayor Linda Candlin announcing the start of the race at noon when those taking part will drop their own ducks from the bridge. Organisers Kidderminster and District Lions Club expect more than 800 ducks to be signed up.

The race was postponed from New Year's Day because of high water levels on the River Severn.

A road closure on the bridge will be in place between 11.30am and 12.30pm and drivers are advised to use the Bewdley Bypass during that time.

The Rotary Club of Bewdley is in charge of public safety on the bridge and the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA) will also be in attendance to ensure safety on the river. The ducks will be retrieved by Wyre Forest Canoe Club members at Lax Lane.

There will be a prize for the best homemade duck, judged by Mrs Candlin. The owner of the fasted duck in the race also wins a prize.

It is now the second year in a row the traditional race, which raises about £3,000 each year for local good causes, has had to move from its usual January 1 date to Easter Monday, with river safety also a danger in 2013.

Tony Rhoden, a member of the Lions group, told The Shuttle last New Year's Eve he was "disappointed" the race had to be held back again but said the event was still successful on the alternative date last year.

"It raises so much money and it brings a lot of people into the town on a day when most likely there would be very little to do in the town," he added.

The 2013 race was won by three-year-old Harry Carr. The best-dressed duck contest was won by Max Barton and his parents Robert and Lea.