Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Mayor of Olney and Ward Cllr Debbie Whitworth joined by Ward Cllr Keith McLean
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
- Olney Pancake Race 2024
Did you know Olney is the home of the world famous pancake race?
over 550 years ago, the story has it that a local townswoman ran down the Olney High Street holding a frying pan, fearing that she would be late for church. Little did she know, centuries later her late comings would result in an annual world-famous pancake race.
Nobody really knows how the race originated, however, the story of the woman running hurriedly to confess her sins at the sound of the shriving bell seems to overtake the rest.
Shrove Tuesday has always been of religious significance to the townsfolk of Olney. It is the day before Lent, which is the start of the traditional fast. Traditionally, people were to give up dairy products for Lent, meaning the products were put into a pancake mix. For the Olney women, it was also important to attend the Shriving service before the start of Lent, where they could confess their sins ahead of Ash Wednesday.
In 1445, the first pancake race is said to have taken place in Olney. The women of the town grabbed their apron and hat, running down the high street to the church door. Centuries later, today, the women of Olney are still picking up their frying pans to take part in the timed race.
Each year, people travel from far and wide to witness the world-famous event. The race was even featured in a book about 500 things to witness across the globe!
Sponsored Stories
Local News
-
Milton Keynes man jailed for weapons and drugs offences
Knife blade, sword and cocaine carried by offender.
-
Votes cast in Milton Keynes Youth elections
Big turnout as young councillors are elected.
-
CCTV image released following Milton Keynes assault
Man attacked with piece of wood in centre.
-
Milton Keynes among the best UK cities for startups
Area has a ‘dynamic entrepreneurial landscape’ say experts.
-
Tell us your story
MKFM always wants to hear your stories about your city.
-
New crest coming for MK Dons
Supporters asked to vote for their favourite design.
-
Prime Minister’s Milton Keynes visit halted after farmers’ protest
Noisy demonstration forces PM’s party to cancel speeches.
-
Jail for Milton Keynes drugs offender
Police called after cannabis smell reported coming from car.
-
Former Milton Keynes student hits the West End stage
Denbigh School Alumni stars in Wicked in the West End.
-
Will Red Bull have a new-look livery this season?
Red Bull Racing will unveil the team's new livery next week, and it could be quite different to recent designs.
-
Litter makes Milton Keynes people feel rubbish
Charity call to join in with UK-wide ‘spring clean’ litter-pick.
-
MKFM Review: The Rocky Horror Show, Milton Keynes Theatre
Carly could not wait to return to Milton Keynes Theatre last night (10/02) to see the highly-anticipated The Rocky Horror Show and here is her full review...
Weather
-
Fri
4°C
-
Sat
4°C
-
Sun
4°C
-
Mon
6°C
-
Tue
8°C
- How To Listen To MKFM
- MKFM and GDPR Data Regulation
- Contact Us
- Complaints Procedure
- Competition Terms and Conditions
© 2020 MKFM Limited - Radio Made In Milton Keynes. Powered by Aiir.