Hitchin residents braved the wind and rain to take part in the annual Shrove Tuesday charity Pancake Race.

The races took place in the grounds of St Mary’s Church, in the town centre, today (February 13) but were cut short due to the adverse weather conditions.

Organised by the Hitchin Priory Rotary as part of their wider pancake festival the pancake races are split into ladies, gentlemen and fancy dress.

All of the racers carried frying pans with pancakes in them and there were trophy’s and prizes for first and second places, certificates for every runner and two prizes for best fancy dress.

All of the money raised through the pancake race will be donated to the Garden House Hospice Care, based in Letchworth GC.

Hitchin Priory Rotary also took over the Market Place in the town with stalls selling pancakes, mulled wine and bacon rolls; a bric-a-brac stall, tombola and "guess the number of corks" competition.

What is Shrove Tuesday?

Also known as Pancake Day, Shrove Tuesday always falls 47 days before Easter so the date moves, but it will always be between February 3 and March 9.

This year it falls on Tuesday, February 13.

The name Shrove Tuesday comes from 'shrive', meaning absolution for sins by doing penance.


A bell would be rung to call them to Confession, which was called the 'pancake bell'. It's still rung today.

As well as recorded music and the usual entertaining commentary from Paul Mailes of After Dark PA, a bouncy castle, kiddies' corner, skittles, local crafts and much more.

The purpose of the event is to raise funds for charity, principally Garden House Hospice Care, but also for other Rotary charities.