Macclesfield smashes Pancake Race for local NHS charity

A record-breaking wave of community spirit swept through the streets of Macclesfield, as the town’s beloved Pancake Race returned to smash all previous records.

In a spectacular display of local support, 24 teams took on the challenge of flipping a pancake up and down a short course between the Town Hall and Mill Street, which raised over £1,300 for East Cheshire NHS Charity.

Under clear blue skies, the event was captured by Granada Reports’ star reporter Paul Crone, who joined hundreds of cheering spectators to witness the mid-day mayhem.

The event was kindly sponsored by four local businesses, Carefound Home Care, Love Live Graphics, Lifestyle Fitness and Everybody Health and Leisure.

The racecourse saw a diverse field of competitors from across the region, including teams from Harts Accountants, Holy Trinity Hurdsfield Church, The Silk Museum and Gumpo.  

The competition was fierce on the track, notably as Specsavers Macclesfield went head-to-head with "Horrible Hips and Knees", a royal relay team comprised of King Henry VIII, George III, Queen Victoria, and Elizabeth I.

The day reached a fever pitch in a grandstand finish between Specsavers and Reach Out and Recover (ROAR), with the latter narrowly clinching first prize in a closely fought final.

Lily Preston, Fundraising and Events Manager, said:

"It was incredible to see the Macclesfield community come together with such energy and enthusiasm.

“We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who flipped, ran, and cheered from the sidelines; the atmosphere was fantastic!

“The funds raised from the event are vital for East Cheshire NHS Charity. This support allows us to go above and beyond for our patients by providing the added extras and enhanced care that make a real difference to their experience.

“We are so grateful for the public's continued generosity and for everyone who made this record-breaking event such a success."

While the racing was fast, the costumes were equally competitive; the coveted prize for best fancy dress went to the Addams Family, who wowed the judges and crowds alike with their ghoulishly creative outfits.

Backed by local radio station Cheshire's Silk Radio, Macclesfield Town Council, Rapid Response Team (RTT) and the Rotary Club Macclesfield, the race has grown stronger each year, with new teams joining what has now become a much-loved local challenge.

Pictured - Fancy Dress Winners.