A north-east man is determined to bring a sense of fun back to a flood-hit Aberdeenshire village next month by hosting a quacking new event.
Mike Forbes from Ballater has organised the first Duck Festival this year, hoping it will draw tourists back into the village and show people the community is getting back on its feel after a difficult six months.
The inaugural festival, which takes place on May 22, will include over 30 stalls on the village green, a bouncy castle, pony rides, and a pipe band parade, culminating in a huge inflatable duck race on the Dee.
Mr Forbes said: “This is the first time we have held a Duck Festival, and I decided to put it together because last year really wasn’t a good year for Ballater.
“So we’re trying to move away from the floods and want to promote the idea we are back in business.
“While we have had duck races on the Dee before, this time it will feature large inflatable ducks and is part of a whole day of fun and events.
“The inflatables have been popping up at various locations for the last few weeks across Deeside in the run-up to the event.
“The festival is free to come along to and whilst we can’t guarantee sunshine, we can guarantee lots of fun.”
Mr Forbes hopes the day’s packed schedule will highlight the spirit of Ballater and all that the village has to offer.
He added: “It’s not all doom and gloom here despite the floods, there are lots of things happening and many events lined up for the spring and summer seasons.
“Going between Ballater and Aberdeen, I have been able to see the improvements going on in Ballater, the spirit of the community has been exceptionally high, and people have really helped one another.
“It is coming back together and I hope this is a nice, positive celebration for Ballater to look forward to the future.”
