THE popular Bale Push fundraiser in Crantock is fast approaching its 25th birthday.

The celebration event will be staged in aid of Cornwall Hospice Care and other local groups and organisations on Friday, September 12 at 5pm.

Junior team races will get underway at 5pm; which will be followed by the eight and under followed by the 12 and under and the 16 and under, and then the hotly contested ladies event, who all race each other over shorter distances.

Teams for the open, and the 180’s compete over the full quarter of a mile course through the village up and down hills, pushing a full-size round bale of straw, weighing approximately 420lbs and measuring 4' 6" in diameter starting and finishing between the two village pubs, which is due to get underway at 7.30pm.

Chairperson Nigel Eustice said: “It will be great to see the Bale Push Man back as he always brings a smile to people’s faces, we always have supporters asking where he is and when will he be ready?”

“We look forward to seeing teams of four and spectators ready to roll the big round straw bale from. Teams can enter on the evening costing £10 for adult’s teams and £5 for children’s teams. Parking is available at our village hall.

“We welcome back our favourite 1940’s crooner Andy Marshall with live early evening entertainment, and then later in the evening the Old Albion and The Cornishman will entertain us with live music.

“Crantock Bale Push is an essential part of Crantock life providing great fun, excitement and healthy competition for all ages, while also raising welcomed funds for local groups and organisations. with plenty of fun, food and happy vibes awaiting participants and spectators.

“The total raised by the Bale Push since 2000 now tops over an incredible £171,500 which has been all been donated to Cornish charities and local organisations.”