PANCAKE fever swept across the Cotswolds and Wiltshire on Shrove Tuesday.

Youngsters and adults pitted themselves against each other in a series of pancake races in Church Lane in South Cerney in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd.

Holly Elphick, 13, emerged victorious from the race for secondary school pupils.

Afterwards she said:“It is good for the village to have a little fun.”

Holly explained that she was thinking about not taking part in the races but she is glad that she laced up her running shoes.

Despite being there to report on the race, I decided to ditch my notepad and pen and take part in the men’s race, and had the most egg-cellent time despite coming third.

One of the rules of the race was to spin 360 degrees at the midway point and, after nearly taking a tumble while doing this, I have promised myself that I will be wearing trainers instead of shoes if I take part again.

All Hallows Church organised the event and Canon David Bowers said the races have been taking place for around 20 years and have always been a success.

“It has become quite a tradition in the village and it is great to see all ages come together to take part,” he said. “We have parents, grandparents and children here”

Youngsters from Meadowpark School in Cricklade also pitted themselves against each other in pancake races which were a sweet treat for all involved.

While Year 3 and Year 4 children at Swell Primary school in Lower Swell learned the importance of Shrove Tuesday and its relevance to Lent.

The highlight of their studies was, of course, making and eating pancakes.

See tomorrow's Standard for more pancake photos.