Out for a Duck!. Every year for the last two centuries, the men and youths of Grove, near Wantage, Berks, have vied with each other in the local Duck Races. The races, which, it is claimed, have no counterpart in England, are held every summer in the stream, which runs through the village. Competitors, suitably attired for a wetting, lined up across the stream on one side of a small three arched bridge. On the other side, some 30 yards distance, stands the starter, with dark and whistle, and the competitors go all out along the stream to catch the bird. By wading and swimming they make their way forward, shooting the bridge en route, while the duck brings all its evasive tactics in to play to avoid capture. Price for the race is, of course, the duck, which, with fresh garden peas, provides ample recompense for a soaking in the stream. The number of races varies each year with the number of ducks, forthcoming from generous benefactors anxious to maintain the tradition, so ancient that nobody knows its origin. Photo shows, the grandstand is crowded as the duck racers emerge from the low arches of the bridge at Grove, while the duck, with Fate close behind makes hurriedly for the shore. 14 July 1946