A LONG-STANDING village tradition has been brought back to Edgworth after a 15 year break.

The three-legged race has historically been a hotly anticipated event in the area, a key part of the social calendar since 1972.

Unfortunately, the future of the festive tradition was thrown into doubt after the 2006 race was cancelled when organisers were unable to get the licence.

Now, 15 years later, one resident has worked tirelessly to bring the tradition back for everyone.

Ellie Ramwell, 23, grew up hearing stories of the event from her parents, and wanted to give younger generations the chance to take part.

She said: "It was an amazing day, and it was really overwhelming to see all the support.

"We had 46 couples who entered and the support of everyone who came out to watch and take pictures or cheer people on.

"I just want to thank all the pubs and everyone who spectated and took part – without them it wouldn't have happened.

"Thank you to the local businesses who donated prizes as well, everyone helped out and it was a real community effort."

The rural land management student is in her final year at the Royal Agricultural University in Gloucester, and has planned the event around her studies.

It took her two months to organise the race, speaking to the council, the police, and the pubs involved.

Each team paid £25 to Cancer Research UK, and the event raised £4,000 in total.

Ellie added: "The event has always been in aid of cancer research and I didn't really want to change it, I wanted to keep the tradition.

"It was started in 1972 by Steve Simpson and Gordon Childs in memory of Mrs Simpson, Steve’s mother, who died of breast cancer.

"It was then taken up by Mick Webber in 1982, then John Barlow, and now me.

"I spoke to past organisers and they were so helpful telling me what worked for them and what didn't, but also supporting any changes I wanted to make – such as not accepting entries on the day so I knew how many people would be there."

The even has remained much the same, with the traditional date of the Sunday between Christmas and New Year remaining.

Ellie's aunt, Gill Ramwell, said: "My niece has done an amazing job getting the race back to such a high standard.

"It was a great day and she deserves recognition for all her hard work.

"Her friends and family are so proud."