FORGET the Monaco Grand Prix, Wisbech had its very own race with a difference that saw hundreds of people line the streets. It may not have carried the prestige of Monaco, but on Sunday 1,600 rubber ducks were released from Freedom Bridge for a rubber duc

FORGET the Monaco Grand Prix, Wisbech had its very own race with a difference that saw hundreds of people line the streets.

It may not have carried the prestige of Monaco, but on Sunday 1,600 rubber ducks were released from Freedom Bridge for a rubber duck derby.

Some of the ducks just went out to play, but some pushed all the way and the first duck across the line won a village school pupil �200.

The duck race was held by Wisbech Lions Club, in aid of local schools.

Club president Kevin Rodgers said: "Wisbech Lions Club would like to thank the harbour master Peter Harvey for his help and advice and Wisbech Sea Cadets who worked valiantly to make it a success.

"Also, they want to thank the people of Wisbech for their generosity and assure them that any profits will be distributed to the good causes stated as soon as possible."

Hundreds of people bought tickets for the race, and at 5pm Sunday three large bags of rubber ducks were tipped into the river.

The winning duck reached the finish line at Town Bridge nine minutes later.

Mr Rodgers said: "It was here that the best laid plans were altered when a few disappointed losing ducks decided to have another impromptu race to Guyhirn.

"Encouraged by the few rebels many more ducks made their bid to escape the nets and about a thousand of them were soon paddling happily on their way. However, the sea cadets had other ideas and set off in hot pursuit.

"All were soon recaptured due to the cadets' heroic actions with only a few stragglers rounded up as they reached Elgood's Brewery."

The winning duck belonged to Daniel Morris, of Payne Primary School, Parson Drove, who won �200. The runner-up was owned by Elaine Wood, of Emneth, who won �50.