Chester is preparing to take a quack at fundraising once again as the city’s annual Duck Race returns next month.

Organisers are expecting around 100 businesses to join the much-loved fundraising event on Saturday 25 April, which will be hosted by The Countess Charity at The Groves from midday.Family activities including face painting, hook-a-duck and colouring will be available for young and old before the corporate ducks take to the water at 3pm.

Companies are being urged to register their ducks early, with each £275 entry allowing businesses to design and decorate a large duck in any style — from bold branding to celebrity caricatures.Funds raised will support the Extra Mile Appeal, which helps the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust buy additional equipment such as bladder scanners, ultrasound scanners and ECG machines.These items are often shared between wards, and the appeal helps staff work more efficiently by providing equipment that goes beyond core NHS provision.

Competition on the river is expected to be lively, with prizes for the fastest duck, best dressed duck, best celebrity lookalike and the public’s Facebook favourite

.The Countess Charity’s Digital Fundraiser Emma Boylan said the event continues to grow in popularity: “It’s always such a pleasure to see families coming together to enjoy the day and admire the beautifully decorated ducks,” she said. We’re especially pleased to welcome the involvement of schools again this year — it makes the day all the more special.”

Businesses interested in taking part can contact emma.boylan1@nhs.net to secure a place on the starting line.