Pancake day in Midhurst and Petworth

Despite the chill, many schools held races during the day, and at Woolbeding Wood, near Redford, families gathered in the evening to make pancakes, toast marshmallows and enjoy woodlands in winter.

“It’s brilliant,” said Fiona Scully from the National Trust.

“It’s very alfreso. It’s about nature and woodlands.

“We have got a tradition of making pancakes and it’s really good fun outdoors with roaring fires.”

Earlier in the day, pancake races took place at many schools, including Midhurst Nursery Class.

Young children braved the cold to race outside, and nursery owner Chris Reseigh said they had been ‘lucky’ with the weather.

“It was cold, but it wasn’t raining,” she said.

Nevertheless the race would have gone ahead whatever the weather, even if everyone had been forced indoors.

“With small children you can’t really cancel because they can’t understand,” she said.

“Everyone enjoyed it. 20 children took part and so did mums, dads, grannies and grandads.

“We have been doing it since 1987. I really like events where families can come along and everybody can get involved.

Meanwhile at Petworth Primary School, children ‘thoroughly enjoyed’ the pancake-themed day, according to 
head teacher Gill Standing.

“There was a lot of support from parents. During the day every class has cooked pancakes and every child has cooked their own.”

Mrs Standing was at the starting line for the races which were held in the morning.

She said a number of the school’s children had impressed with their speed, but particularly praised Wylf Quilter from year 4, and Gaby Evans from year 5.

At Fernhurst Primary School, children also stepped out into the playground to race.

Triumphant pupils included: Milly Albury, Neve Marston, Tom Ward, Evie Fowler, Monty Kossman, Lowri Cole, Joe Skelton, Eva Webber, James Atter, Sam Riley, Toby Portman, and Daisy Skelton.

Also the mum’s race was won by Linzi Shipway and the men’s race by Stuart Webber.