The annual event attracted 150 spectators and 11 entries to the brook in the centre of the village, which saw local ducks compete in a series of heats, with Sea Biscuit taking the honours.

One of the organisers, Roger Yates, said this was the first time the winner and the runner-up had come from the same owner.

He said: "I was very pleased with the turnout on the day. This is very much a spectator sport and it is good fun. Captain Quack won one of his heats in record time and another duck called The Stig hid under the bridge and didn't get out in time to take part."

He added a dam had to be built across the brook before the competition could start as the water levels were too low.

Last year's winner, Pickle, made it through the first round, beating a duck called Branston, only to be knocked out of the competition by Captain Quack in the semi-final.

The village duck race started 27 years ago when two local residents, chatting in the Old Crown on Christmas Eve, debated who had the fastest duck. A race was then held on the Boxing Day.