ONCE again, the traditional annual Pancake Races are coming to Ross-on-Wye town centre this weekend, Sunday March 2.

The event organised by both the Ross Lions Club and Ross Rotary Club, took over the organisation of the event in 2020, and held their first one in February of that year, just prior to the pandemic lock down.

The year the event which caters for all ages.is being financially support of Ross Town Council.

Registration for the free to enter series of races takes place at the Market House from 11am with the first race scheduled to start at midday. Frying pans and pancakes will be provided by the organisers.

There are differing categories to suit all ages, from under five years of age to adults. There will also be a team race for four colleagues or friends.

Each entrant will receive a certificate. The winners of every race will be presented with medals by the Mayor, Councillor Bev Pope. They will also win a token fora free crepe.

Fancy dress is encouraged to add to the enjoyment of the day and a special prize sponsored by Toybox, goes to the winner of the Children’s Fancy Dress.

To brighten up the recent chilly weather hot drinks and crepes will be available to purchase.

This is a free family event including face painting. A great day out for competitors and spectators.

The traditional Shrove Tuesday Pancake Races had been a regular feature of the town. But following a gap of two decades the event returned to Ross-on-Wye in February 2010.

The pancake has a very long history and featured in cookery books as far back as 1439.

In the UK, pancake races form an important part of the Shrove Tuesday celebrations – an opportunity for large numbers of people, often in fancy dress, to race down streets.