Shrovetide Fair and Pancake Races – Tuesday 17 February 2026

Published: 20 February 2026

Shrovetide Fair and Pancake Races – Tuesday 17 February 2026

Lichfield celebrated Shrove Tuesday on 17 February with the hotly contested pancake races in the city centre. Keen entrants gathered in Bore Street at noon for the time‑honoured event, determined to put in a truly “pan‑tastic” performance. The sunshine drew in large crowds, led by our exuberant Town Crier, Adrian Holmes.

The Mayor of Lichfield, Cllr Claire Pinder‑Smith, Deputy Mayor, Cllr Rosie Harvey‑Coggins, Deputy Mayor’s Consort, Andy Harvey‑Coggins, Sheriff of Lichfield, Revd Ian Hayter, and Sheriff’s Consort, Sally Hayter, oversaw the competition to ensure everyone followed the rules.

With over 50 contestants, there were plenty of enthusiastic participants. Each race saw competitors run along Bore Street towards the Guildhall, flipping their pancake once at the start and again shortly before the finish line. Larger‑than‑usual crowds gathered around both the start and finish, thanks in part to the half‑term break. It was wonderful to see so many excited children getting involved.

The winner of the Ladies’ Final was Britney Lewis from John German Estate Agents, who secured her name on the Golden Pancake Day Trophy for the third-year running. She also received a hamper of goodies courtesy of Data Careers.

The Gents’ Race was won by Arnold Obadai of Sweatbox Boxing Club, while 10‑year‑old Finlay Newcombe claimed victory in the Under 10s Race. Finally, triumphing in the Mascots Race was Fin Jones from Wynniatt Husey Accountants, who dashed to victory dressed as a hotdog! Coincidentally, Wynniatt Husey also sponsored this year’s Mascot Race with a £50 cash prize for the winner. All our winners also received a Pancake Race Winner medal and certificate.

Following the races, the Civic Party made its way to the Market Square, where the Mayor opened the Shrovetide Fair, courtesy of Anthony Harris of Pat Collins Funfair, with the children present able to enjoy a free ride.

The pancake races were organised by Lichfield City Council, who would like to thank the following Bore Street businesses for sponsoring this year’s event: Wynniatt‑Husey Accountants and DataCareers.

Pancake Race Winners 2026

LADIES RACE – Britney Lewis

GENTS RACE – Arnold Obadai

UNDER 10’S RACE - Finlay Newcombe