THE annual Plaxtol Duck Race raised almost £2,000 to help maintain the fabric of the village’s historic church.
The Grade II listed building was built in 1649 and has no dedication, having been built during Oliver Cromwell’s Commonwealth.
In 1894, the church was fully restored and enlarged thanks to the patronage of William Cazalet of the neighbouring Fairlawn estate, father of Peter Cazalet, who trained racehorses for the Royal Family.
Pam Horrell, Chair of the Friends of Plaxtol Church, which organised the May 7 race, said: ‘We’re thrilled that the unexpected warm weather caused a bumper attendance to this much-loved village event.
‘Not only does it bring together the whole community, but the £1,940 raised this year will help enormously with maintaining the fabric of our beautiful parish church.’
Rev Dr Peter Hayler, the rector of Shipbourne with Plaxtol, and local artist Eileen Dickinson were the judging panel for the decorated
duck competition.
PICTURE: TOP THE BILL: (L-R): Decorated duck race winners Ella Miah, Adam Julio, Lucy Harrison, Lowrie Morgan, Lily Mae Busbridge, Dan Kimura, Amy Denham and Grant Hards
