As the daffodils fade and die back we herald the arrival of summer.
Despite Charter Day’s absence in Retford this year, the tradition of the Retford Lions Club duck races continued with the red and yellow races on Monday 8th May. And this year saw the Lions-sponsored Big Help Out in Kings Park encouraging people to volunteer in various charities and organisations.
Retford Lions would like to thank the many companies who sponsored red ducks and members of the public who supported the yellow duck races. Many thanks to all those who took part in the day too. Although the rain dampened down the proceedings there were several very creative displays and presentations and it was clearly evident that many people had gone to some trouble. A number of new volunteers have been identified.
The duck races provided the usual spectacle of fun in the water. All the ducks were eventually retrieved. The red race was won by duck number 198 which was sponsored by Hair Studio in the town. They had chosen Cancer Research UK as the charity for the prize of £1,000.
The main yellow race did not reach a sell out for the first time in memory. Only 1,280 ducks took part but the prize money remained the same. It was another eventful race, particularly at the end when spectators were well entertained. It was a close finish but duck 636 was the winner, bought by Dianne who is receiving £200. The second duck was number 254 with £100 for Tony and Liz and the third duck across the line was number 242 with Rachael taking the £50 prize.
This year’s Tour de Retford event proved very popular with 175 riders assembling in the Market Place and on to the 75 mile route around the local area. Lions would like to thank Dominic Battersby of Bridgegate Cycles for organising the event on their behalf and thanks to ASDA East Retford for supplying bananas for the riders. The event was blessed with good weather and is now established as an annual event for the town.
In a busy month, Lions also assisted Morrisons with a collection in aid of Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice which raised £800. A great result in these difficult times.