Sun shines on Alcester as hundreds enjoy annual pancake races
ALCESTER’S annual Pancake Race Day was enjoyed by large numbers on the town’s high street on a bright and sunny March day. People of all ages took part in races, and plenty more cheered them all the way to the finish line.
Schools, pubs, and other organisations brought teams to the event which tasks participants to run up and down the Alcester high street carrying a pancake in a pan. There were also relay races throughout the afternoon.
One onlooker told the Herald: “The weather is lovely and it’s so nice to see all the schools here taking part. I’ve come out of work to see my son, we’ve done it every year, it’s brilliant.
Another added: “I’ve come to watch my granddaughter. I won the pancake race and so did my mother. It’s all very exciting and it's great that the weather is so nice.”
Awaiting the race another said: “It’s a lovely day for the pancake race and it’s a great turnout. It’s lovely having events where people all come together- there are lots of these throughout the year.”
Alcester town crier Dave Parks kept proceedings moving smoothly. After the races were done, he spoke to the Herald about how the day continues to be a much loved event in the town calendar.
He said: “Today was fantastic. The weather was on our side, perfect conditions for runners. We were blessed that most of the schools in the area sent teams down and everyone took part in a really good event.
“It’s not only the kids, the adults come out to watch on and a lot of people come out of the town to watch on. They know how special today is. I think this is the 54th year it has taken place other than the two years it didn’t because of Covid and people in the town always look out for it in the calendar.”
On his view from outside St Nicholas’ church, Dave added: “I’ve got the grandstand view. I can see the determination on people’s faces coming up the high street. It’s wonderful to see their faces and see them take part in such a special day.”
