A HAILSTORM just before the start of the Yarmouth Pancake Day races failed to put off the town's schoolchildren from taking part in the annual event.

Toddlers from the Little Stars pre-school up to Yarmouth Primary's Year 6 all took part on Shrove Tuesday.

Headteacher Lizzie Grainger said: "They all did tremendously well, despite the weather, and they all had a lot of fun."

The adults enjoyed themselves at well with Adam Pelosi of Gossips Cafe winning the prestigious Shrove Tuesday Pancake Trophy for pubs and businesses, for a third time.

Katherine Brooker, also of Gossips, finished second, with Matt Courtney of the Royal Solent Yacht Club in third place.

Adam said: "I won the trophy a couple of years back twice on the trot, but the secret of my success is to have a small pan."

The event is organised by Yarmouth Carnival Committee.

Chairman Jen Allen said: "The weather was cold and wet, so the children were very brave. Because of the conditions we restricted the racing to fast walking, but it's harder to stop the older ones running.

"Everyone enjoyed themselves, young and old, so that's the main thing."

The George Hotel made and sold pancakes in the street and will donate all money raised to the school.

Master of ceremonies was Anne Kyle, commodore of the Royal Solent Yacht Club.

Prizes were presented by town mayor Steve Cowley.

The mallishag also made an appearance and the competitors had to run around Mustapha Pancake (Mike Grinstead) to complete the course.

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