Plastic duck races are BANNED from rivers because the playful game can harm wildlife and damage the environment
- Allerdale Council in Cumbria has outlawed them from council-owned waterways
- However races can help raise thousands of pounds for good causes and charities
- Councillor suggested children could instead use birds made from paper or wood
Yellow ducks used in races have been banned after councillors in Cumbria branded them an environmental hazard due to plastic waste.
Tourists often flock to the traditional contests on rivers and canals across the north to watch the races that have become popular with families.
But Allerdale Council in Cumbria has now outlawed them from any council-owned waterways.
Duck races have been banned after being branded an environmental hazard due to plastic waste by councillors. Pictured: Crowds gathered at Endcliffe Park in Sheffield for the annual Easter charity duck race earlier this year
Cllr Michael Heaslip said the yellow plastic birds could ‘damage wildlife and the environment and may end up as plastic litter’.
He added: ‘It is important that we take care of our environment.’
Mike Edmondson from Cockermouth Round Table, which holds an annual charity race, said it was a ‘pity’.
A local who has taken part in the races told the Daily Star: ‘Once again it’s a few snowflakes ruining it for everyone else. They’ll be banning them from our baths next.’
As well as being enjoyed by members of the public, the mass-produced plastic birds have also helped raise thousands of pounds for good causes through charity races.
Cllr Michael Heaslip said the yellow plastic birds could ‘damage wildlife and the environment and may end up as plastic litter.’ Pictured: Endcliffe Park in Sheffield
One of the most celebrated of which is held in Cockermouth in Cumbria.
The original motion from councillor Paul Scott initially only called on the prohibition of helium balloons and Chinese lanterns amid fears over safety and animal welfare.
But a successful amendment from Cllr Heaslip added plastic ducks to the list of prohibited items.
Mike Edmondson from Cockermouth Round Table, which holds an annual charity race, said it was a ‘pity’ (file image)
He suggested that children could instead use birds made from paper or wood or from any another material that would not harm the environment.
Under plans agreed this week, the ‘intentional release’ of lanterns, helium balloons and plastic ducks will be prohibited at events licensed, sponsored or supported by the council.