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Town flips out over annual pancake race

Competitors run around the town centre holding a pancake and frying pan

A market town's traditional Pancake Day race has crêped up once again.

Wallingford residents have flipped out over the Shrove Tuesday contest for about 50 years, except for a pause during the covid pandemic.

Children and adults each take part in running circuits around the town centre holding a pancake and frying pan.

"This is probably the best thing I've won ever, it's top of the chain really," said Oliver Baskeyfield, who came first in the adult race and won a golden frying pan for his efforts.

News imageTwo men run down a narrow road between shops in the town holding frying pans.
The contest has taken place in Wallingford for about 50 years
News imageThe contenders set off from the starting line as residents look on.
Participants bring their own frying pan but pancakes are provided by the organisers

The race takes in Market Place, St Martin's Street, and St Mary's Street, all of which are closed for an hour and a half to avoid a sticky jam.

Participants bring their own frying pan, with pancakes provided by organisers.

News imageOliver poses with his golden frying pan trophy in the town centre. He is also holding his own pan and pancake.
Oliver Baskeyfield came first in the adult race and won a golden frying pan

John Houston, from South Morton Boxing Club, has whisked up the competition for the last 17 years.

He said: "We have great community events in Wallingford and I feel this is like the start of it.

"Spring's awakening... the sky is blue, the wind has stopped, it's all coming alive again.

"So that's why I think it's a special event."

When asked how he took his own pancakes he added: "Just maple syrup, that's my favourite... I'll allow myself some maple syrup today to celebrate."

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