THOUSANDS of ducks bobbed along the River Ock on their way to raising a four-figure sum for two charities.

The duck race at Millets Farm, Frilford, on Sunday was organised by Faringdon Rotary Club and was a fundraiser for Respite for Oxfordshire’s Sick Youngsters, Rosy, and the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance.

A total of 4,500 tickets were sold at £1 each, and about 250 adults and children gathered on the riverbank to cheer on the ducks.

The sponsor of the winning duck received a £300 prize.

Rosy chairman George Hedges said: “We have raised a lot of money and it was a good day out.

“I have never seen a duck race like that before and it was very intriguing. There was great excitement.”

Some of the sick children Rosy helps support were at the event. It is planned to make it an annual event