Wall collapse puts duck race in peril (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Wall collapse puts duck race in peril

2:13pm Thursday 8th May 2008

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STORMY weather has caused a wall to collapse in Calne, threatening the annual duck race.

Bricks that fell from the back wall of Calne Free Church on Church Street blocked the River Marden.

Organisers of the duck race, due to be held on May 17, have begun an urgent clean-up so the family day can go ahead.

Calne Lions member Nick Belson said: "This is a major setback for us with the prospect of 3,000 ducks trying to pass through on their journey from the start at Somerfield to the finish at Marden House. It's a major threat to the success of the race."

The group is calling for volunteers to help clean the river out so the race can go ahead.

Lions president and town councillor Amanda Venton said: "It's been a tough year with everyone watching the pennies.

"All the Lions have worked so hard and the whole Calne community looks forward to this annual event.

"It would be such a shame if it does not go ahead."

Organisers have arranged a clean-up for Sunday and are asking for families to help clear debris from the river.

Castlefields Canal and River Park club has offered to help, but the group fears the operation is going to take days.

coun Howard Marshall, the town's deputy mayor-elect, said: "All of these events organised in Calne are for the benefit of the whole community.

"It is important the people of Calne support all these functions as they are put on for the residents of Calne.

"Their support is the only way these events can continue."

The annual duck race raises money for local charities and good causes.

There will be three races on the day, the school race, company race and the public race.

More than 3,000 people are expected to flock to the town centre in a bid raise £6,000 for local charities.

To help out or to sponsor a duck, contact Calne Lions president Amanda Venton on (01249) 813693.

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