Dartmouth Duck Race Raises Thousands for Local Charities
Every summer, Dartmouth finds a special way to bring people together, and this year was no exception. Over the weekend, the town’s much-loved Rotary Club held its annual summer fete, and the highlight—without a doubt—was the world-famous Dartmouth Duck Race. Picture this: more than a thousand bright yellow plastic ducks bobbing along the water, cheered on by crowds of excited families gathered at Royal Avenue Gardens and around the Boatfloat. It wasn’t just a spectacle; it was a celebration of community spirit and generosity.
The event was opened in traditional style by Dartmouth’s Town Crier, Les Ellis, who added a touch of ceremony before the real fun began. Then came the main event: the race itself. The ducks were tipped into the water and set off on their wobbly journey. At first, they seemed in no hurry to make progress, drifting lazily with the tide and giving the judges more than a few headaches. Eventually though, with some encouragement, the “quackers” picked up pace, sparking plenty of laughter and friendly competition among the crowd.
Also Read:Behind the scenes, it was all carefully organized. Fete organizer and duck master Keith Barker—who stood out in his bright yellow duck costume—described the day as an “outstanding success.” He explained that hours of planning and teamwork had paid off, and he expressed gratitude to everyone who pitched in, whether by setting up early in the morning, donating prizes, or simply turning up to enjoy the day. His enthusiasm was shared by Dartmouth Rotary President Bernard Young, who praised the sunny weather, the strong turnout, and the support from stall holders and sponsors.
The numbers tell their own story. Early estimates suggest more than £3,000 was raised, with proceeds going to causes that matter deeply to the local community, including Devon Air Ambulance, Rowcroft Hospice in Torquay, and youth organizations in Dartmouth. Other charities, such as the Children’s Hospice South West and Citizens Advice, were also represented on the day, helping to broaden the impact of the event.
Of course, the fete wasn’t just about the ducks. Visitors browsed arts and crafts stalls, enjoyed children’s games, admired vintage cars, and listened to live music from local duo Mick and Lucy. A grand draw kept the excitement going, while the barbecue and tea hut made sure no one went hungry—sandwiches, cakes, and plenty of refreshments were served throughout.
The success of the duck race and fete wasn’t just about raising money—it was also about connection. Residents and visitors alike mingled in the sunshine, shared laughter, and contributed to something bigger than themselves. Dartmouth Rotary now hopes the event will inspire more people to get involved. With just 28 members at present, the club is always looking for new faces, whether as full members or simply as “Friends of Rotary,” lending a hand when needed.
So, what started as a playful race of plastic ducks ended as a powerful reminder of what community can achieve. A few hours of fun on a sunny day translated into real, lasting support for vital charities and local groups. And as Dartmouth’s ducks floated toward the finish line, they carried with them the spirit of generosity that keeps the town’s traditions alive year after year.
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