COVID restrictions posed a problem for Farnham Rotary Club’s duck race, meaning one of the town’s most popular events could not take place in its usual guise.

But the club rose to the occasion by planning an event which could take place online.

By using social media, details of the race have been shared around the world.

It was easy to buy tickets, using the trusted Ticket Source website, and sales have been ramping up.

Putting the drama of the event online was another challenge, which was solved using drones, another first for the club.

A physical race took place one morning in Gostrey Meadow, watched only by a few early-morning walkers.

The results of the filming were spectacular, as everyone who has followed the race on YouTube will have seen. Even after the event it is still possible to watch it on https://youtu.be/opDBedSwE34

The river was flowing well that day and a small group of Rotarians guided the ducks as they raced for the finishing line. The weather was beautiful which made for some lovely shots.

The money raised will be used to support a number of local charities, who have been through hard times these last 12 months.

The Farnham Weyside Rotary Club is very grateful to everyone who contributed, and also to a number of local organisations which supported the project.

They included Farnham Town Council, Farnham Herald, Modest Farnham Ltd, C E Hall, Opticians, Yeomans Honda, Churt, Lewington Homes, Uber Haus Interiors.

Particular thanks are also due to Oliver Hilder of London Aerial Surveys for the drone photography and his help in assembling the final video.

The lucky winner and four runners-up have been notified by email.