After four years of absence from the cobblestones of Guildford High Street pancake flippers of all ages and abilities took part in the annual Shrove Tuesday pancake races. Plenty of costumes were on show at Tuesday’s (February 13) event, in which teams of four battled out for top spot in a number of races. Spectators lined the pavement outside the Guildhall Clock to watch the action unfold. Kicking off the event were the children races, full of enthusiasm and determination. After that, it was the turn of the adults, where a range of teams represented their companies, charities and groups.
The event was organised by the Spike, Charlotteville Jubilee Trust in Guildford. GTCC is grateful that we were chosen as the recipient of entry fees and sale of pancakes as well as a street collection during the event. At time of writing it is thought that around £800 was raised which will be put to good use in our voluntary community projects.
The Chaplaincy provided ‘Tossing Marshalls’ for the 100m race course, checking that competitors complied with the strict tossing rules! Many pancakes did not make the finish line so our marshalls picked up the broken remnants to avoid other runners slipping over in the already damp conditions. Other volunteers collected money, provided first aid and race administration. Local broadcaster and panto legend Peter Gordon provided race commentary from the Guildhall balcony. Former Guildford MP, Anne Milton and Guilfest’s Tony Scott were very efficient pancake makers and tossers and the local Waitrose kindly provided two hundred pancakes, free of charge, for the races.
A team of fully winged Angels also entered one of the races but sadly only managed fourth position in their race, so will be working hard to improve tactics for the 2025 race! The last race featured five local mascots such as Surrey University’s Steve the Stag, but the race was won by Kelly’s Storage mascot.
It was an amazing morning and despite the weather hundreds of people joined in the fun and helped make it such a worthwhile event. Thank you to all our staff, volunteers, supporters, local businesses, Guildford Borough Council, Experience Guildford and charities for assisting in making it happen after so many years.
You can see many more pictures on our Street Angel Facebook page @AngelsGFD
