In Pictures: The Great Spitalfields Pancake Race

Torrential rain, freezing temperatures, wind and even thunder didn't stop this intrepid lot of flippers and tossers racing up and down Dray Walk, Brick Lane, yesterday for the annual London Air Ambulance Great Spitalfields Pancake Race .An enthusiastic crowd came out to support the runners, despite the elements, and were more than happy to remind the 'athletes' of the race rules by shouting 'stop and toss' - as at least 2 tosses by each entrant was required. As frying pans filled up with rain, pancakes got soggier,and harder to contol - not easy when you're dressed as a can of WD40. A pink gimp, ensuring that all pancakes were gettin the obligatory sugar and lemon, seemed to be more of a hinderance than a help as he pounced upon unsuspecting pan wielders. To complete this madcap occasion.The Lost Marbles String Band provided some incidental music and a stall served up delicious hot crepes.