Schools in Ilkley and Burley-in-Wharfedale are getting set for the area’s first annual pancake race with a series of heats in the run-up to the big event.

Three primary schools, two independent schools and Ilkley Grammar are planning to run heats selecting the fastest-sprinting pancake-flippers ready for the charity races on Shrove Tuesday, March 8.

Ilkley Rotary Club wants to establish the race as an annual event. Money raised will go towards the TFL Rotary Fund, which is fighting for the final eradication of polio all over the world.

There will be children’s races and a race for teams of grown-ups from local businesses and organisations.

Heats for seven and eight-year-olds, and nine to 11-year-olds, will take place at Westville House School, Burley Oaks Primary School, Ashlands Primary School, Sacred Heart Primary School, Ghyll Royd School and Moorfield School for Girls.

Heats for 12 to 14-year-olds and 15 to 17-year-olds will take place at Ilkley Grammar School. Each race will be timed to establish the winner of each age group.