A break in the rain, and even a little sunshine for a time on Sunday morning, made for a perfect day for the first pancake race day in Ross for a few years.

The members of the Lions and Rotary clubs of Ross-on-Wye had spent the last week wondering if it would be possible to go ahead with their planned pancake races.

The groups had wanted to give something back to the community by providing a free event that the whole family could enjoy but were concerned that the after affects of Storm Dennis, and with more rain forecast, that the races would not be able to go ahead.

Yet dozens of families gathered in the Market Place and lined Broad Street to cheer on the runners who had to stop at a designated point to toss their pancake before continuing.

The races were more for fun than athletic glory and everyone who took part was presented with a certificate and the winners were awarded medals which were presented by the Mayor, Councillor Jane Roberts.

A spokesperson told the Gazette that they were really pleased with how the event had gone. She said: “ A lot of thought went into planning it and until the morning we did not know how many would be taking part.’’ She said they were pleased they moved the event to Sunday as it meant more families could take part and they hope to run it again next year.