HUNDREDS of people had a quacking time in the sun at the seventh annual Chester Duck Race on Saturday.

It was hosted as always by The Countess Charity to raise money for vital new equipment at the city's hospital.

So far the events have raised more than £125,000.

This year the money will go towards new digital vital signs machines which allow clinical staff to take vital blood pressure and temperature readings alerting them to key changes in patients, such as early signs of sepsis.

Each machine costs £2,500 and the hospital charity aims to buy eight from the proceeds of this year's Duck Race.

Lesley Woodhead, Head of Fundraising, said: “This will be our seventh Duck Race and it is always one of the highlights in our fundraising calendar. It is always a great day out for families and this year didn't disappoint!"

Prizes were handed out in the following categories: The Most Popular on Facebook; Fastest Corporate Duck; Fastest Community Duck; Celebrity Lookalike; and Best Dressed.

This year's event was sponsored by Hickory’s, Bar Lounge, Upstairs at the Grill, Allington Hughes and Puddle Ducks.

Lesley also thanked Dee Radio, Cheshire West and Chester Council and Big Storage for their support. Prizes are sponsored by The Success Factory and Blue Planet.