Dorchester’s second Pancake Race a success

Building on the success of last year’s event, frying pans turned up by the dozen ready to do battle with fellow flippers.

With Shrove Tuesday falling during half-term, children were very much in evidence and needed little encouragement to take part.

No event is complete without town crier Alistair Chisholm who turned up with his usual gusto and started each race with a hefty clang of his bell.

Not to be outdone, the adults joined in the fun. A couple of swift-footed mums led the way, with Richard Crosby of Marie Curie, Alistair, the Mayor of Dorchester Susie Hosford, and Daffy the Daffodil hot on their heels.

It is not easy running with a frying pan, trying to toss a pancake, and keep a firm eye on the Mayoral chain. Neither is it easy running when dressed as a daffodil – or indeed, a town crier.

Everyone entered into the spirit of the occasion, and fresh pancakes were available to devour for a small donation to Marie Curie. And it was not a simple task cooking them with the weather determined to turn them into frisbees - but they were worth the effort.

Richard Crosby thanked everyone for attending despite the inclement weather.

More than £100,000 has now been raised locally for Marie Curie in the last three years.

Organiser Anita Harries said: “Once again, the people of Dorchester have turned out to support an excellent cause and have fun. This event is as much about raising the profile of Marie Curie as it is about raising money.

"I have to give a big thank you to Rob Scott of Brown Goose for sponsoring the event and providing the pancakes.

"It is always great when somebody comes forward like this. It was lovely to see the Mayor, Susie Hosford, turn up and take part and I am so grateful she found the time to come along.

"Thanks also to Councillor Janet Hewitt for coming to lend a hand. And a big thank you also goes to Alistair Chisholm for rolling up and adding his own bizarre touch to the occasion.”