The 20th annual Rubber Duck Derby was launched today by the Friends of Hospice and Belco.

The event, which will take place on Sunday, June 5, on Ordnance Island and King’s Square in St George’s, aims to raise $200,000 for Agape House and hospice care in Bermuda.

Launching the event outside the City Hall today, Denton Williams, Belco chief operating officer, said: “Belco is pleased to celebrate 20 years of sponsoring the Rubber Duck Derby.

“The work of Friends of Hospice is important to Agape House and to hospice care in Bermuda. Friends of Hospice continues to expand programmes and services to individuals in need of hospice or palliative care, ensuring it is provided with dignity and comfort.”

Cathy Belvedere, executive director of Friends of Hospice, said: “While cancer diagnosis remains the mainstay of patient admission at Agape House, we also serve non-cancer patients, who have a range of other terminal illnesses.

“Some patients are with us for a brief stay for symptom management. This year we introduced our Day Programme for Caregivers, which is a spin off from our successful Outpatient Adult Day Hospice Programme, now in its fifth year.

“We do everything possible to enhance the quality of life to ensure that everyone lives until they die. For the patients who are at Agape for end of life care, we have only one chance to get it right.”

To celebrate the milestone anniversary, the Derby will start at noon, providing two additional hours for people to enjoy the activities.

The opening race will be the Corporate Duck Dash at 1.30pm. Organisers say there will be a county fair atmosphere with lots of food vendors, a spectacular kiddie land and other activities including a plant stall, quilting booth and dance competition.

For tickets or more information, call 232-0859 or e-mail info@hospice.bm.