Race staged in perfect weather for ducks

The Mill at Rode held its first charity duck race on Saturday - and, as luck would have it, it was perfect weather for ducks.  The event was held in a heavy downpour, but customers were prepared to don their waterproofs and go outside to watch the fun.

They were also treated to the sight of the pub's owner, Paul Clark, wading downstream in his wet suit, releasing trapped ducks so they could make their way along the swollen river to the leat that runs under the pub.

Mr Clark and pub manager John Foreman had been timing the course before the race, but the swirling waters and high winds made it a treacherous route for the 160 plastic ducks that had been sponsored by customers.

The event raised £150 for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young, and there were prizes for the sponsors of the first three ducks to cross the finish line.

The first prize of a meal for four at the pub was won by one of The Mill's regular customers, Ken Olssen, who works in Rode as an odd job man and driver.  He auctioned his prize to make more money for the charity.

It has been a busy time for the pub.  It also hosted a four-day beer festival last week featuring 16 different beers from around the country.  During the course of the festival 1,200 pints were pulled.

There will also be Hallowe'en celebrations at the pub on Saturday, and a bonfire will be lit at 5pm to start the festivities.