IT was the perfect weather for ducks, but not for the crowds as the bad bank holiday weather continued in north Essex yesterday.

The duck race in Castle Park, Colchester, was just one of a number events across the county at the weekend spoiled by the unseasonal weather.

Fun days and fairs across the area fell foul of the weather with the public staying in the warm as temperatures struggled to get into double figures and wind and rain continued to batter Britain.

A few souls braved the beach at Clacton, but there was no queing for deck chairs.

The duck race in Colchester was started by the mayor and was part of the Colchester Lions fun day.

The ducks set off at about 4pm from Middleborough Bridge and the owner of the winning three ducks won cash prizes.

Families who did brave the conditions enjoyed displays in the fun day’s arena, with dog shows, line dancing, majorettes and a judo display.

There was a fun fair and a variety of charity stalls, where the Lions club donated £500 to Help the Heroes.

But Lions president, Graham Harridge, admitted the weather had dented their fundraising hopes.

He said: “Everyone had a lovely time, but there were less people this year because of the bad weather, which was a shame.

“We usually raise around £3,000, but I think this year we will be lucky to make £900.”