Teams are being invited to take part in Crantock’s big annual fundraiser, which is being rolled out for its 22nd year.

The Crantock Bale Push will be held in aid of Little Harbour Children’s Hospice South West as well as other local groups and organisations on Friday, September 8 at 5pm. 

Junior teams and the hotly contested ladies event will push a huge bale of straw through the village over shorter distances.

The open and the 180s 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 Old Albion and The Cornishman from around 7.30pm.

Bale Push favourite, 1940s crooner Andy Marshall will perform live during the event and then later in the evening in the two pubs.

Chairperson Nigel Eustice said ‘‘We look forward to seeing teams of four and spectators ready to roll the big round straw bale. 

“Crantock Bale Push is an essential part of village life and provide 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.  

“Teams enter on the evening and parking is available at our village hall.

“The total raised by the Crantock Bale Push since 2000 now tops over an incredible £136,500 which has been all been donated to Cornish charities and local organisations.”

Alice Merrett, the area fundraiser for Children’s Hospice South West, said: “We are extremely thankful to be picked as one of the Crantock Bale Push’s charities this year. 

“Our hospice in St Austell, Little Harbour costs around £3 million to run each year, so support such as this is vital to ensure we can keep supporting children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families.”