BUSINESSES, schools and community organisations are signing up for Devizes’ Shrove Tuesday pancake races, being held in the Market Place on Tuesday.

Once again organised by Age UK Wiltshire, the races take place along the eastern side of the Market Place between noon and 2pm and will help raise cash for the charity’s work among older people around the county.

Allison Davis is in charge of making sure everything goes off smoothly. She said: “The races are a fun way to celebrate Pancake Day with colleagues, friends and family. Each year the event has grown in popularity and we are proud that the races are now an established part of Devizes’ events calendar.

“Almost anyone can take part. All you need is a sense of fun and a pair of sensible shoes. The races are run in the lunch hour to allow teams from local businesses to join in.

“The adult races are organised as relays with teams of four. We are also hoping to run children’s races and once again hope that the local schools will get involved.”

A silver salver will be presented to the winning adult team.

Fancy dress is optional, but appreciated.

Local businesses and organisations have already offered their help. The Black Swan Hotel will again provide pancakes and members of Devizes Rotary Club will be stewards on the day.

Prizes will be presented by Mayor Pete Smith.

Brian Deeley, chief executive of Age UK Wiltshire, said he was immensely grateful for the support his organisation would receive from the event. He said: “In difficult economic times we rely even more on public support and fundraising to help us maintain those services.

“We hope that people will come along and enjoy the races, taste a pancake or two and help us raise vital funds to support our work.”

Entry is still open and anyone who would like to join in can pick up an entry form from Age UK Wiltshire’s Market Place offices. Go to www.ageukwiltshire.org.uk or phone (01380) 727767.