The Rotary Clubs of Roborough, Tavistock and Yelverton raised more than £2,000 at their charity duck race held in Tavistock Meadows at the end of last month — with a little help from the fire brigade.

With the wind blowing in the wrong direction, members of the Tavistock Fire Service saved the day by jumping into the canal to guide the 2,500 rubber ducks down the canal.

Geri Parlby, vice president of Tavistock Rotary Club, said: 'It was a fantastic day with Rotarians from all three clubs joining forces to make the race a real success. 

'We are especially grateful to the Tavistock Fire and Rescue Service for shepherding the stray ducks down the canal.'

The profits from the race will be going to the Stroke Association, ShelterBox and the Rotary Club campaign to eradicate polio around the world.

The winning duck numbers were: I, £100 — Duck 233, L Grier; 2, £50 —  Duck 1556, N Ditcher; 3, £25 — Duck 1111, A Cox; 4, Frozen Duck donated by JS Downing — Duck 98, M Apps.