ON SHROVE Tuesday, February 17, Broad Street once again welcomed crowds, competitors, and charity representatives for the return of Launchpad’s annual Pancake Race.
The stage was set as teams donned their fancy dress and brandished their pans for the event that marks one of the charity’s highlights in the calendar, raising funds for its work tackling homelessness.
Teams of four appeared dressed as bananas and fried eggs, the gang from Scooby Doo, Willy Wonka and the Oompa Loompas, the cast of Stranger Things, crayons, and even a seagull with a gang of french fries, taking to their marks at the starting line.
Regular host Andy Briggs welcomed spectators, and the event was underway in earnest.
Initial heats saw teams from Evoke, Rowberry Morris, and Air IT go through to the finals, beating out teams from The Oracle, Broad Street Mall, Abbey School, Davis Tate, and Field Seymour Parkes.
A tense round of closing races saw Air IT take top spot in the rankings, placing first, followed by Rowberry Morris in second, and Evoke Transport in third.
The team from Abbey School was awarded the Best Fundraisers accolade, followed closely by the team from Davis Tate, while Field Seymour Parkes were named best dressed for their appearance as Willy Wonka and three Oompa Loompas.
It was also announced that more than £7,000 had already been raised on the day, with the final total still to be announced.
The event also welcomed the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Alice Mpofu-Coles, who said at the close of the races: “The Pancake Race is not only a fun way to spend a Tuesday, but also a fantastic way to shine the spotlight on Launchpad.
“They’re a brilliant local charity striving to prevent homelessness across Reading.
“Everyone deserves a home– every step run, every pancake flipped, and every laugh shared helps Launchpad raise awareness and much-needed funds.
“Your kindness goes a long way, so to all of the volunteers, participants, and those watching–your involvement really does make a difference in our town.”
Fiona Keyte, Fundraising Manager at Launchpad, said: “The Pancake Race never fails to be fantastic – especially as we managed to have a rain-free event!
“The costumes, laughter, crowds and community spirit were incredible this year!
“We’re so grateful to the hundreds of supporters who lined the street, the generous local businesses who donated prizes, and our wonderful volunteers.
“This fun-filled event has a serious purpose: to raise funds and awareness for those in our community who are homeless or at risk of losing their homes, whatever their circumstances.”
