THREE teams of cassocked choristers competed with each other to out-race the Dean of Worcester and his team of clergy and organists in a 250-yard pancake race around the cloisters of Worcester Cathedral today.

But the Dean, the Rev Peter Marshall - who fell flat on his face in last year's dash - and his fellow Shrove Tuesday sprinters were on form this year and beat them hands down.

The four teams, cheered on by the 150 boys and girls of St Albans school, faced a hair-raising obstacle course round the 14th Century cloisters quadrangle.

"There were several hoops and benches to manoeuvre around and there were a few tangled cassocks and a few falls by the choristers," said Cathedral spokesperson Susan George.

"But it was a very high-spirited race - and the Dean had prepared himself this year by wearing a crash helmet!"

Last year's race was held to promote the start of Worcester Cathedral's £5m Appeal for Music and Light.

To find out more about the appeal, or make a donation to sponsor a pipe, call Lee White on 01905 611002 or e-mail musicappeal@worcestercathedral.org.uk