NOW that Christmas is over, it's time to think about getting in shape for Malvern Rotary Club's annual pancake day race.

The race is now in its seventh year and town businesses, charities and other groups are being urged to sign up and have a flipping good time.

And the event is not only meant as fun for participants and spectators, but also to raise money for good causes.

This year these include the local branch of Macmillan Nurses, Prostate Cancer UK, which is now the largest men's health charity in the UK and other Rotary charities.

The race will be held on Shrove Tuesday, February 17, in Priory Park, starting at 12.30pm.

Entries are invited from teams of four adults. Teams entered by charities will keep all the sponsorship money they raise. Non-charity teams can nominate any charity to receive half of their sponsorship while the other half will got to Rotary. The entry fee is £20 per team.

Michael Barraclough of the club said: "Come and support or better still take part in this fun event and at the same time help us to raise funds for worthy causes. Teams with fancy dress are always very welcome and have great entertainment value for the onlookers and the participants.

For information and application forms ring Rotarian Iain Selkirk on 01684 575879, or from Malvern Library, the Splash or the Tourist Information Centre,