Ilkley Rotary pancake race is a hit with youngsters (From Ilkley Gazette)

Ilkley Rotary pancake race is a hit with youngsters

8:00am Thursday 14th February 2013 in Local news By Amanda Greaves

Pancakes were flying in Ilkley town centre on Shrove Tuesday as schoolchildren and staff from local businesses competed in the annual Ilkley Rotary Pancake Races.

The Grove was shut off to traffic for the morning and into the early afternoon, and shoppers and passers-by joined children and staff from schools lining the street to cheer on the competitors.

The event was again organised by Ilkley Rotary Club, which stewarded the races, and handed out goodie bags to the youngsters taking part.

Despite the chilly weather and a few flakes of snow, the races were again well-attended, with many more entrants in the adults races, which began at noon.

Ilkley Town Crier, Chris Richards, announced the beginning of the proceedings, and commentary was provided by Harrogate-based radio station Stray FM.

Pancakes and frying pans were provided. Each competitor had to run down The Grove - keeping their pancake safely in their pan if possible - and flip the pancake at a marked point before the finish line.

The winners were each given a T-shirt and a chocolate gold medal. Races were held for the different children’s age groups, entered by children from Ben Rhydding Primary School, All Saints C of E Primary School, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School, Ashlands Primary School, and students from Ilkley Grammar.

The adult races this year attracted more entries, with competitors coming from a variety of businesses based in the town, including several restaurants.

A final, featuring winners of the individual adults’ races, was won by a delighted Joshua Owens, who works at restaurant Martha & Vincent, on The Grove.

Two races were also held for members of the Purple Patch Arts group, which runs creative activities for people with learning disabilities, mental ill health, or dementia.

It was also a good day for Ilkley Rotary Club’s collection in aid of good causes. Club members rattled collection buckets out on The Grove, and many gave generous donations.