When: 26th May 2014, 10am – 4pm
Where: Tetbury, Gloucestershire
£: To enter the races costs from £7 – £24. Free to watch
What is it?
Tetbury, once known for its thriving wool and yarn markets, celebrates its heritage with an annual quirky race through the town. This year the Tetbury Woolsack Races take place on 26th May.
Tetbury in Gloucestershire was one of the most well known wool and yarn markets in the country during the 16th century. The Woolsack Race, originally run between two pubs (The Royal Oak and The Crown), is thought to have begun with young drovers showing off their strength to the local women. The official races have been running for over 40 years now and today the race has a shorter course of 240yds. The races have even made it into the Guinness Book of Records and each year raise money for good causes.
The Tetbury Woolsack Races are run up a steep street, named Gumstool Hill, where crowds line up on either side to watch this quirky spectacle. There are races for men, women and children, with some competitors running in fancy dress. This year the races are complemented by street entertainment, music from Samba band Ilu Axe and the Woolsack Fun Fair, making it a great day out for the whole family.
The video below will give you a taste of what to expect on the day.
More info: www.tetburywoolsack.co.uk