It is a seafront vista known for its tranquil waterways, ducks and pedalos.
And now the Venetian Waterways in Great Yarmouth is preparing to host an afternoon of wacky mascot racing fun.
The custodian of the seafront feature, the Access Community Trust, has organised its first mascot pedalo race event on Thursday, June 1 from noon.
Next month’s fun event will see a number of heats with well-known characters from local attractions competing to win the inaugural trophy.
The trust is also appealing for local businesses to take part by sending a mascot along to join in the pedalo fun.
Families are also invited to come and enjoy the occasion and cheer on their favourite characters, with the waterways café providing a range of free arts and craft activities for children to participate in, plus live music from local singer Simon Fay from 2pm onwards.
Lee Brown, events co-ordinator for the Waterways, said,
“We hope the mascot race will be a real joy spreader for the local community. It also gives local businesses the chance to highlight their attractions or services to a wider audience, whilst also raising awareness of the additional charitable services Access Community Trust delivers locally.”
The man-made gardens and boating lake have become a popular space for all ages since a £2.7m refurbishment completed in 2019.
The Venetian Waterways first opened in 1928, having been commissioned by the borough council as a way to create work after World War One.
The Access Community Trust and volunteers maintain the upkeep of the gardens through revenues generated by the Island Café.
To find out more about the race, future summer events and activities and private hire option available at the Island Café, you can find information on Facebook by searching The Island at the Waterways or you can contact lee.brown@accessct.org