2019 Events

Is this to be the last Guildford Pancake Races held in Europe? Where will our batter come from next year?

NEVER MIND – Put all that behind you and come and have some fun in the High Street on 5th March 2019

This year both Eagle Radio and the Charlotteville Jubilee Trust will be sponsoring a new local charity set up by the Mayor of Guildford Cllr Mike Parsons.

Mike’s primary charitable aim – “Guildford Young Carers” – is new, innovative and addresses an area of society that is very much overlooked by us all. Estimates suggest that as many as 8% of children aged 5 to 18 in many areas of Guildford act as carers – unrecognised and hidden to society. The effect on these children is huge. Some fail to realise their academic potential, and they often suffer mental health issues, bullying and social media abuse.

These are young people who find their normal young lives being replaced by caring for a relative within the family unit. These responsibilities often cause negative outcomes, such as falling behind at school, or simply a loss of precious childhood time. These children and young people are often unable to access help and many do not even realise that they are acting as carers – it’s just what you do.

It’ll be a strange one this year!

Firstly it will be held at the same time as the farmers market which often upsets the farmers as we take up some prime pitch space for our 50 metre course. If you can please make sure you buy something from the many stalls that will be there and mention that you are only there for the Pancake Races and what a lovely market you have here etc ……….

Secondly we have local elections on 5th May this year and that can often bring out all sorts, it may be the only time you will get to actually see your borough councillor in action – don’t miss out.

Spike 19 is a food tasting event for produce made within 25 miles (as the crow flies) of the Spike. Come and sample locally made Wine, Honey and Cheese. Have you ever tried Norbury Blue made just down the road in Albury or, according to Raymond Blanc, “The Best Camembert in the World” made just over the county border in Alton?

Did you know we make our own honey at the Spike and if the bees have been busy enough we will hopefully have some 2019 blossom infused truly local honey for you to taste along with many more, all produced locally.

Have you heard of Pewley Down Wine, made with grapes grown less than half a mile from the Spike? This is a truly local pink sparkling wine and a tasting must not be missed!

Additionally, in the Undercroft, you will be able to attend free talks on, among other things, what’s involved in keeping your own bees, mead making and plastic free re-usable food wraps and much more! The timetable for the talks will be issued early in May 2019.

The event is free to attend with tasting charged on a voucher system; 20p per voucher or 6 for £1. All talks and demonstrations are free. You can reclaim the cost of your voucher by purchasing the product tasted.