Theft of duck is blow to charity event (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Theft of duck is blow to charity event

3:48pm Tuesday 24th July 2012 in Grange-over-Sands news By Hannah Upton

A DUCK-themed charity event in Grange-over-Sands has had a set back after a theft at a takeaway in the town.

In a bid to raise money for the Michelle Jurd Memorial Trust, 48 painted resin ducks have been displayed in shops and businesses around Grange.

Residents and visitors have been buying maps to follow the trail of ducks, which will then be auctioned off in September.

But one of the birds, 'China Duck' has been stolen from its home at Chilli Red takeaway in Main Street.

Organiser Ian Wilson said it was taken during a busy period at the shop on Saturday night, though the owners are not sure exactly what time.

He said: "We are just very disappointed because we are only a week into the event.

"Two of the ducks have already sold for £100 and £200 so that is potentially the amount that the charity has missed out on because of the theft.

"Whoever did this has had to lean right over the counter when the staff weren't looking."

The duck is painted red with gold detailing.

Mrs Jurd, a mother-of-two and former RAF officer, died in a collision on the A590 near Kendal in November, 2009.

The charity was set up in her name to promote adventure activities for children and to support those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Anyone with information should call police on 101.