A Chippenham tradition will see pancake-wielding runners taking to the High Street for flippin’ good fun on Shrove Tuesday, March 4.

There is a new trophy to be won in this year’s pancake races in an event just for businesses sponsored by John Williams Heating Services Ltd.

Boss John Williams, 45, will be competing for the first time. He said: “I’ve not seen the races before as we’re on Bumpers Farm so we can’t just nip out to watch.

“It should be a good laugh. We’ve got as good a chance of winning as anyone else. We’ll have to get training.”

Sainsbury’s staff are also taking part, encouraged by the sportsmanship last year of customer service assistant Li Ann Wright in the adult race.

She said: “I really enjoyed taking part last year, even though I came last.”

Mayor Sylvia Gibson will start the races from outside the town hall at 11am, with separate races for adults and children.

Entry is free but participants need to provide their own pancake and frying pan.

Emma King, tourism manager for Chippenham Town Council, said: “The pancake races have been going on for a long time, more than 15 years, and are always popular and good fun.”

Competitors on the day could receive a much-coveted engraved frying pan, with those in second place getting a jar of maple syrup. All entrants receive a lemon donated by SK Fruits from The Bridge.

There will be music and stalls. For more details, email info@chippenham.gov.uk, call (01249) 665980 or drop in at the visitor information centre in High Street.