It was another successful outing for the Company’s ‘dream team’ of the Master, James Hockley, Clare Banks and James Parris in the Livery Companies’ Annual Pancake Races. 21 Companies entered teams in this year’s colourful event in a packed Guildhall Yard on Shrove Tuesday, which was organised once again by the Poulters’ Company. The Mistress, Caroline Rider, acted as the non-running captain and chief cheer-leader.

Liveryman James Hockley was again our star in the Novelty Race. Dressed in a ‘ brick wall’ costume made by Catherine Fuller, the Renter Warden’s wife, James won the coveted frying pan trophy. He has now won it three times in the past four years. He went on to come a narrow second in the Victor Ludorum race.

The Master won his heat in the Masters Race but was unable to repeat his success of last year and came third in the finals. Applicant Clare Banks nearly won her heat in the Ladies Race. She crossed the line first but the frying pan has to be securely deposited back on the table to complete the race, and hers sadly toppled off the table. Freeman James Parris was leading at the turn in his heat in the Liverymen’s Race, when he slipped and took a heavy fall on the cobbled stones, bloodying both knees and injuring his pride!

An impressive number of Company members and friends braved the cold to come and support the team in this fun event. Their vocal support was greatly appreciated by the runners and added greatly to the atmosphere.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of several of our Liverymen the team raised nearly £500 for the Company’s charities.