BUCKDEN'S annual duck race took place on Sunday in challenging conditions.

A strong breeze blowing against the current made for an interesting race which was wide open until the last few seconds.

The race started briskly enough, but the large peloton of ducks was becalmed under Buckden Bridge and had to be encouraged on their way by Buckden duck-master Christopher Winpenny!

A spokesman said for many minutes duck 126 had a clear lead; just yards from the finish however a gust of wind blew it ashore and duck 287, trained by Nicole, just pipped duck 158 at the line.

The Buckden hot-dog stall did a brisk trade as always, and the hook-a duck stall was very popular with the children.

The race, which lasted a record 40 minutes, is held to raise funds for Buckden’s newly renovated village institute.

Organiser Sandra Kilvington said: “It was another brilliant afternoon – great to see everyone enjoying themselves. Many thanks to everyone who came and to all those who helped.”