duck_race

Charity duck race returns to Salford Quays after two-year delay due to Covid

  • MedEquip4Kids have hosted fundraising event since 2014
  • Businesses such as Soapworks and Kid’s Planet sponsoring the race
  • Money raised helps to raise vital funds for medical equipment not funded by NHS

Manchester charity MedEquip4Kids are bringing their duck race fundraiser back to the Quays following a two-year delay due to Covid.

The race returns for its seventh year and funds raised will be put towards vital medical equipment for children not currently funded by the NHS.

As well as the business and community duck races, the event includes fairground rides, face painting and a tombola.

Salford businesses will provide refreshments at the event, hosting burgers, ice cream and coffee stands.

MedEquip4Kids’ project co-ordinator, Evelyn Glarvey, told NQ: “This is our first year back since 2019, as 2020 and 2021 were cancelled due to lockdown.

“We’re having two different races on the day – there’s the corporate duck race where local businesses sponsor a duck for £250.

“They get their duck delivered as an ordinary plastic duck which they get to decorate and then on the day we have a competition for the best dressed duck.”

“We normally get the fire brigade to help out as well, as they use their hoses to help the ducks flow along the water.

“They usually stick around all day, so it’s fun for the children to be able to see the fire engine.”

The duck race helps to fund local equipment and projects across Manchester.

“We have projects across Manchester, including Bolton and Tameside at the moment,” Evelyn said.

“Events are a big part of our funding.

“Plus, it’s a fun day out, it’s good for the community and it’s a way of ensuring people hear about MedEquip4Kids.”

The annual duck race takes place at Salford Watersports Centre on 15h April.

Tickets for the small ducks are now on sale and can be purchased here.

The MedEquip4Kids website contains information about projects they support and how people can donate to help them fund vital medical equipment for young people.