THIS year's Duck Race in Bewdley has raised thousands of pounds for charity. 

The popular event returned to the town on the Bank Holiday (Monday, April 19) after a three-year break. 

The race, which is usually held on New Year's Day, was last held in 2019. 

Events have previously been cancelled due to the Covid pandemic and high river levels. 

The mayor of Bewdley Paul Harrison and mayoress Mary Breese fired the starting gun to launch the race.

The winning rubber duck was number 660, owned by three-year-old Joshua Kelley from Stourport. 

Kidderminster Shuttle: Winner Joshua Kelly with Bewdley Mayor Paul Harrison and Mayoress Mary Breese. Photo: Colin HillWinner Joshua Kelly with Bewdley Mayor Paul Harrison and Mayoress Mary Breese. Photo: Colin Hill

The duck in second place was number 172, owned by Jessica Freer. 

The event, organised by the Kidderminster and District Lions, raised £2900 for the club's charities. 

The club expressed thanks to the Wyre Forest Canoe Club who collected the ducks, and Severn Area Rescue Association for providing water safety cover.

Club president Ron Cross said that without the help of these organisations the race would not be possible.