The traditional Buckfastleigh annual fun day and duck race is back in town tomorrow, June 30, at the Orchard Millenium Green.

Families and visitors are invited to enjoy a free afternoon on the green with a variety of stalls, games, food and music, from 2pm.

And, as ever, the day will conclude with the famous duck race, when a thousand ducks will be released down the River Mardle with the winners pocketing their backers’ cash prizes.

Event Co-ordinator Trefor Jones said: ‘We’re thrilled to be bringing patrons another fun-filled afternoon for all the family and are confident the event will be another success.

‘The annual fun day and duck race continues to be a highlight in the calendar and we’re grateful it continues to receive generous support from residents and organisations across the wider community. We regularly receive interest from people who wish to be part of the event up to a year in advance.

‘So come along, don your sun hat and sun glasses and join us for another great afternoon – don’t forget to buy your duck too!’

Entertainment this year includes a group of local musicians, Band Friday, with a mixture of tunes and styles including swing, Latin, blues and jazz.

Beverley Garland, who has served the people of Buckfastleigh for nearly a decade as the manager of the local post office, will be formally opening the event.

The fun day helps to raise money towards the upkeep and insurance of the Orchard Millennium Green and has received sponsorship for the afternoon’s entertainment from the Rotary Club of Ashburton and Buckfastleigh.

The OMG Trust, which manages the green for the local community, is looking for more volunteers and organisations to support their cause.

Trustee Ann Werry said: ‘We’re always very pleased to welcome new volunteers to the team in whatever capacity they feel they can contribute.

‘Members are not expected to make a large commitment or required to have prior experience, just a keenness to come along and contribute to a worthwhile project.

‘We very much wish to make the green a key destination for events to cater for a wide range of interests and members of the community, so if you feel you have an idea that can engage the local population, we’d love to hear from you.’