The back of the P22

Getting the nets ready to catch the winning ducks.

Commentary, announcements and music from Sandwich Internet Radio

The P22 and Sandwich internet radio.

The music and commentary was provided by Sandwich Internet Radio.

The Duck launch boat.

The launch vessel with all the ducks on board heading for the Toll Bridge (though no toll charged these days). This is a swing bridge which did open during the day to let the River Runner boat go up river. It was built in 1892 and stopped charging a toll in 1977.

The launch vessel getting into place.

The course is ready with the boom extending the length of the far bank. This is designed to stop and ducks slacking and going into the bank.

Waiting for the start the airhorn at the ready.

Just waiting on the P22 for the ducks to be released.

And they are off!

The Ducks are well underway just passing the P22.

Just a few stragglers passing the P22.

Well on their way reaching the halfway point.

Speeding (well coasting) down to the finishing line.

Just Passing the P22. Lines of people on the quay urging their duck on.

Its all over and waiting for the winner to be announced.

2 Men in a Boat - past presidents Andy Dale and Paul Grahame

The anticipation rises as people wait patiently for the Ducks to comer past.

Every vantage point is claimed in anticipation of the start of the race.

A packed crowd await the ducks.

Patiently waiting.

They are off - The ducks have been released from the packed Toll Bridge to make their way down the river, Some obvious leaders have broken away from the pack.

Due to a tragic accident on the river it was decided to cancel the Duck Race and later in the year to hold an event in St Marys Arts Centre. This was a different type of event and we gave thanks to the emergency services involved in the search and rescue operation.

Past President Barry Dale and Radio Presenter Mandy Winters in Deep conversation.