Take me to the Mardi Gras

This picture celebrates two gloriously eccentric British traditions which take place in our nearby town of Alcester. For many years, Pancake races have been held on Shrove Tuesday . It's now quite a big event starting with the infants, seen here, and continuing through the age groups to adults and local pub teams etc.
It all starts in the High Street at 12.30 pm and I had to leave about an hour later when they were still only up to year eight children.
This picture also shows members of the 'Court Leet' who organise the whole thing. The first Court Leet was formed in 1424, so there have been a few changes of personnel since then . Not much else has changed though I think. The High bailiff was giving out the prizes . The immediate past High Bailiff was holding one end of the tape, the other end was held by the official Searcher and Sealer of Leather.
We also have a Town Crier, Bread Weighers and Ale Tasters, amongst others. All to protect the interests of the locals of course, and make sure the Ale isn't watered down or any other nefarious goings on. It was all very jolly in the spring sunshine.
Happy pancake day!