Pancakes & Sunshine = broad smiles on Broad Street
Reading’s Broad Street saw a flurry of pancakes on Shrove Tuesday as Launchpad’s 27th annual Pancake Race took place, raising £11,898.36 (and counting!) for the charity’s essential services supporting those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Reading.
25 cracking teams, representing local businesses and community groups competed for first place and the chance to claim the famous frying pan trophy.
Teams took part in a fun-filled series of knock-out races, culminating in a thrilling final. The event was expertly compered by long-time Launchpad supporter, Andy Briggs, much to the delight of hundreds of cheering spectators – including the Mayor of Reading, Glenn Dennis, who presented the prizes.
In the end, the team from Davis Tate emerged victorious, claiming the coveted frying pan trophy and becoming our 27th champions. They were rewarded for their efforts with the prize of a cocktail masterclass for four, by The Roseate Hotel.
Our second-place team from NatWest bank won free drinks and a day pass at the Novotel Hotel, and our third place team from Evoke won afternoon tea from Afternoon Teabox at Crumbs.
Honouring the best of the rest
Special awards were also given to teams for their outstanding efforts. The team from Abbey School were our top fundraisers, they raised £1,775and won a Bottomless Brunch for 2 and an afternoon tea for 2 at Revolucion De Cuba, whilst the team from Collards won a £60 voucher from Honest Burger for best fancy dress. Davis Tate also won the mayor’s highly commended fancy dress award (Tickets to The Biscuit Factory) for their Wicked outfits. And our final prize of vouchers from Vino Vita went to Tomato Energy for best team spirit.
The money raised by these, and all our dedicated teams will help Launchpad continue its vital work across Reading, providing support and resources for people facing housing crises.
Community Support at the Heart of the Event
Fiona Keyte, Fundraising Manager at Launchpad, said: “The Pancake Race never fails to be fantastic – particularly when we have such glorious weather. The costumes, laughter, and overall spirit was incredible this year, and the 2025 Wicked and Munster family costumes’ will definitely be remembered!
We’re so thankful to the hundreds of supporters who cheered on the teams, the wonderful local businesses who so generously donated at the event, and to our wonderful volunteers. This fun-filled event has a serious purpose: to raise funds and awareness for those in our community who are homeless or at risk of losing their homes, regardless of their circumstances.”
