ORGANISERS of a popular annual duck race are determined not to let the event sink - so they are making the race Covid-secure.

Colchester's Duck Race is being transformed so it does not have to be cancelled for a second year because of the pandemic.

In recent years thousands of people have turned out to support the charity race as part of the Hospital Radio Fun Day, in Castle Park.

However last year the quacking event was called off due to the nation going into lockdown.

With the country is lockdown once again the Rotary Club of Colchester Forum, which organises the event, has decided to hold a virtual duck and balloon race this year using animation.

Jon Neill, of the club, said: “The Duck Race is a much-loved part of Colchester’s events calendar and it raises thousands of pounds for good causes, so we have to save it.

"We really hope people will buy a virtual duck or balloon to ensure this event doesn’t sink without a trace.”

He added: “Everyone can still enjoy the fun of the race, but in a Covid-secure way.

"Once you have bought a duck or a balloon, named it and chosen a colour, you can look forward to race day.

"Then you can watch the race with whoever is in your social bubble and cheer on your favourites.”

This year’s race is in aid of the Colchester Anti-Loo Roll Brigade, which offers practical community support, and other local rotary charities.

Peter Dutch, founder of the Colchester Anti-Loo Roll Brigade Community Interest Company, said: "Any money that is raised will help us enormously.

"All funds go direct to the people that need it in the town and not on our running costs.”

The race will be held over the Easter weekend from midday on April 2 to midday on the April 5.

Ducks and balloons can be bought at £2 each via the link of Rotary Club of Colchester Forum’s Facebook page or by visiting balloonrace.com/forumofcolchester.

The top prizes are £300 for first place and £150 for second.