Sadly an important date in the calendar of Wimborne – and indeed the Minster church – has been cancelled.

For the first time since the Minster Pancake Race was revived in 1998 after an absence of over 16 years it will not be able to take place this year. It was scheduled for Shrove Tuesday 16 February but due to the latest Covid-19 lockdown regulations the organisers have reluctantly said there is no way it can be held.

Anthony Oliver, who together with Peter Lockwood the Minster’s administrator at the time, revived the race when he was mayor in 1998 and who has in recent years organised the annual race with the help of a small committee said, “We would normally be approaching all the local schools and other groups and individuals at this time inviting them to take part in the races. As will be appreciated this is just not possible due to the current restrictions so it is with great regret we have to announce that this year’s Pancake Race cannot take place.”

Anthony thanked all who have supported the races over the years and said all being well it will be back next year, on Tuesday 1 March.