DUCKS will race down a Hampshire river in the name of fundraising to save a historic building.

On August 26 more than 1,400 bathtub ducks will race down the River Itchen in Winchester.

The spectacle will be the final event in aid of a fundraising appeal to keep Winchester City Mill open to the public.

The building suffered flood damage in 2014, and surveys revealed the ancient beams were in a bad state of decay, and £125,000 is needed by the end of the year to keep it open - so far £70,000 has been raised.

Winchester City Mill manager Ric Weeks said: "We’re asking people to sponsor one of our yellow racing ducks before 2pm, which is when we’ll be lowering the ducks into the river.

“Sponsors can follow the ducks’ progress as they race along the river from our island garden, beneath City Bridge and down to the finish line at Wharf Mill.

“We’ve got five fantastic prize hampers, generously donated by local businesses. There’s English sparkling wine and artisan confectionery, vouchers for delicious local pub meals and boutique shopping, toys for little ones and plenty of other lovely gifts.”

Entry to the fete is free, with the event kicking off at 11am. Thanks to the Mill’s volunteer bakers, visitors will be able to pick up delicious handmade treats made using the Mill’s wholemeal flour. There’ll be plenty of traditional ‘village fete’ games, with the opportunity to snap up some great prizes.

A pop-up baguette bar will offer freshly-made lunchtime snacks. There will be plenty of other refreshments on offer in the Mill’s pretty island garden, including local ales, chilled Pimms and soft drinks.