Vinnie is quacking new addition to Stamford Park

Meet Vinnie the duck - the quack-tastic new addition to Altrincham's Stamford Park!

The 10ft duck, made completely from willow branches, is the talk of the town after being installed at the popular award-winning park.

Park-goers have to look again and think they're going quackers when they spot Vinnie who sits proudly overlooking the park's duck pond.

The duck was created by Des Gillan, of Willow Goat Crafts in Sale, along with the pupils from St Vincents Catholic Primary School & Nursery in Altrincham. The project was led by Friends of Stamford Park, with the installation carried out by Des and The Conservation Volunteers (TCV Manchester).

Des said: "I came up with the idea of creating a willow structure for the park and got in touch with Jackie at Friends of Stamford Park to discuss my ideas. After some discussions, we agreed that a duck would be perfect for the island in the pond.

“We decided to go ahead and involve the children at St Vincents Catholic Primary School & Nursery. I created the willow frame in my workshop and took it to the school. Over two days, the children weaved willow around the frame. Every child took part with each class taking it in turns to join in the fun. Together with Mrs Lawrence and the school we decided to call him Vinnie (after St Vincent) - I think he looks great! Well done to everyone who helped."

Jackie Richards, from Friends of Stamford Park, said: "Des approached us to ask about putting a willow structure in Stamford Park. Once we had agreed on a safe and secure place for it, a duck was decided upon. Our committee was immediately drawn to the idea, so I contacted St Vincents Catholic Primary School to find out if they wanted to help with this project.

"They were absolutely thrilled to take part. The children raised money to pay for the duck and also helped to create him. Mrs Lawrence and the school were very supportive and all the children were amazing. I think Vinnie looks fabulous and we are very proud to have him in our park."

The park, which is owned and managed by Trafford Council and partners Amey, is one of the most popular parks in the borough and was awarded its first green flag in 2025.

Cllr Stephen Adshead, Trafford Council's Executive Member for Highways, Environmental and Traded Services, said: "Well done to everyone who helped to create Vinnie the duck - he looks fantastic. It's lovely to see children and adults getting out into our wonderful parks and green spaces to help with projects like this.

"Trafford Council, alongside our partners Amey, is totally committed to its parks and green spaces and one of our corporate priorities is to address the climate crisis through biodiversity and sustainability."