FAMILIES went quackers for Turton Rotary Club's annual duck race.

Some 2,000 of the rubber duckies were dropped into the water at Bradshaw Brook, for the 60 metre race.

And the rain held off long enough on Sunday to make sure the only things that got wet were the ducks themselves!

Back for its 20th year, the charity event, held at Bradshaw Cricket Club, was as popular as ever, with more than 9,000 tickets sold.

Swimming down the river bank, the numbered ducks, which all corresponded to tickets sold, took part in three races, the last of which was a children's-only event.

Money prizes donated by sponsors of the event, were given for first, second, third, fourth and fifth places with the top prize being £1,000.

All proceeds from the event are distributed throughout the year to more than 50 local charities and last year the race brought in more than £12,000.

Michael McNicholas, President of Turton Rotary Club said: "It has always been the aim of the club to support local Bolton charities and we have been doing that for 47 years.

"It is one of our biggest events and an enjoyable morning.

"Lots of kids get involved and we get a lot of support from sponsors and volunteers of the club.

"We drop the ducks from the bridge and then we have volunteers helping the ducks along, as they don't always behave themselves and sometimes need a bit of encouragement.

"It is all good fun."

Ron White, of Bradshaw Road was at the event with his three grandchildren, who he said "loved the race". Meanwhile, Catherine Llewellyn, aged 54 and her husband John, aged 64, who recently moved to the area, were attending the race for the first time.

Mrs Llewellyn said: "It is nice to see a community coming together.

"It is a very friendly atmosphere."

Emily Dickinson, aged eight, was at the event with her family and said she was hoping that she held the winning ticket.

The St Maxentius Primary pupil said: "I like watching because all the ducks are yellow and that is my favourite colour.

"The best part of the race is when they go really fast.

"I hope I win!"

The winners of the event and amount raised will be announced later this week.