FAMILIES went absolute quackers during the Bank Holiday weekend as they saw hundreds of plastic ducks race along a Basingstoke river.

With the sunshine glinting off the River Loddon, families gathered to witness the annual Old Basing Duck Race on Monday, organised by Basingstoke Loddon Rotary.

The ducks were released in two heats and families watched and cheered on their selected duck from the bridge over the river at Bartons Mill to watch the races.

It was the 12th year the Basingstoke Loddon Rotary Club has organised the popular event which raises funds for an array of charities.

Spectators kept a close eye on proceedings as the ducks raced towards the finishing line, with the winners of the heats announced and presented with a prize of a meal for four, a massage, or a cut and blow dry, which were donated by Basingstoke College of Technology.

The final race brought about great excitement from the onlooking crowd, with cash prizes presented to the overall three winners.

The event managed to raise more than £800 which will be donated to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

A spokesperson for Basingstoke Loddon Rotary said: “We would like to thank all who supported the event on the day and to those who kindly donated the prizes.

“Thanks also to Team Osprey who provided music and commentary on the day.”