4,000 bright yellow ducks will float down the River Wharfe on Sunday 21 June, as Burley-in-Wharfedale’s much-loved annual Duck Race returns - with proceeds supporting community groups across the village.
The Cornmill Pond will host an open day from 1pm where race tickets will be on sale; the main event launches at 2pm from the riverside. Each numbered race duck corresponds to a ticket entry, and prizes will be awarded to the holders of the first 5 winning numbers to cross the finish line.
Tickets are priced at just £1 each and can be purchased from any Burley in Wharfedale Community Trust (BWCT) trustee, from Burley Guides or Burley Trojan Football Club members, and at the Wharfedale Deli at the bottom of Station Road in the village. Burley in Wharfedale Community Trust trustees will also be selling tickets outside the Co-Op from 10am to 12pm every Saturday until race day or until allocated tickets run out.
After the race, the Scouts and Guides will host the popular Teas on the Green with homemade cakes and hot drinks, and there might be ice cream, making the afternoon a traditional family-friendly fundraiser and community social gathering.
Proceeds from ticket sales will be split between the Community Trust, Burley Guides and Burley Trojan FC, with funds directed towards community projects in and around the village. Last year’s funds helped build a new clubhouse at ‘The Rec’ for the football club and provided support for the Guides.
This time of the year also sees nearly 1,000 members renew their Community Trust membership. Membership details are available on the Trust website: burleycommunitytrust.org.uk, and cost £15 for individual, £20 for group / family and £150 for individual life membership.
The Trust, with passionate resident volunteers who make it all happen, is involved in many projects to enhance village life and community spirit, from the Duck Race, to the next big event in our community calendar, the Burley Summer Festival, to the Christmas Lights, street and craft markets; the Wharfedale Wombles eco group, the Moor Run and so much more. It also maintains village assets including Scalebor Pavilion and playing fields, Cornmill Pond, the Pudding Tree and Jubilee Gardens; and supports our Primary schools and youth outreach, sports clubs and voluntary organisations and raises funds for village-asset upkeep.
A major recent project was the new Pump Track, officially opened last weekend; the Trust is looking forward to further community projects, including developing a village photo library on the Discover Burley website.
Duncan Ault, Chair BWCT, said:
"The Duck Race brings families together and raises vital funds for local projects. It’s a lovely summer afternoon out — we look forward to seeing the community enjoy the day. With the Pump Track now open and more initiatives on the horizon, community membership and support make a real difference — please consider joining the Trust."
The location of the riverside launch is (what3words: ///quirky.tabs.aboard).
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