More frying pan wielding competitors turned out than ever before for this year’s pancake races.

Waltham Abbey’s Shrove Tuesday Pancake Races, held in Sun Street, attracted big crowds and the most participants since it began four years ago.

Around 25 children competed in the event which beat the estimated 15 from last year.

The event comprised three races, one for children under five, one for parents and another for businesses.

The winner of the under five’s race was Aaron Trotman, 4, while Ada Ihueze won the parents competition and Hari Arslan from Apollo Cafe, in Sun Street, won the businesses event.

Mr Arslam, who finished second last year, won the race despite a desperate attempt by the runner-up diving headfirst across the line.

The event is organised by the Waltham Abbey Town Partnership chaired by Helen Kane.

She said: “It was a glorious day with a lot of enthusiasm from everyone, which was wonderful.

“It was a great day for residents and businesses and everybody seemed to be enjoying themselves.”

Fellow partnership member Kate Towerzey said: “We are delighted with the turnout and we would like to thank the children, parents and businesses for their support.”