STALWART flippers took a battering from the weather but refused to let the rain stop from when they raced along the High Street on Tuesday.

The annual Pancake Race, organised by Chippenham BID and Chippenham Town Council, had classes for adults, children and businesses.

Local sponsor Sarah Jayne's Cafe whipped up some pancakes, and the event was also supported by Digiprint, and Chippenham FM.

Plenty of prizes were up for grabs at the Shrove Tuesday festivities, including the John Williams Heating Services Ltd winners’ cup, which was presented by Mr Williams to Hayden Baker and Wes Cosgrien of O2.

The French chef - played by Damien Pickett - coordinated the races, and the Wiltshire Air Ambulance mascot cheered on the competitors.

Altogether 19 youngsters took part in the event, with various heats and a final. All the winners took home chocolate Easter egg prizes. Harry Allison won the final of the children's race, and Liam Berry was victor in the adults class.

The adults did not put on quite such a good show, with only four signing up the run along the High Street - exactly the same number as last year.

Kathryn Crosweller of Chippenham Connected said: “The Chippenham Pancake Race is chaotic and hilarious pandemonium! We had a great crowd of brave racers despite the rain, and it was good fun!”

The next event on the town calendar is the Soap Box Derby in the High Street on Sunday May 19.