Deadline extended for Birmingham's Pantomime horse Grand National
Brave volunteers have been given an extra week to apply for Birmingham’s annual Thomas Vale Pantomime Horse Grand National, which takes place on Sunday November 22 along Broad Street.
The closing date for applications is now 10am on Monday November 16 and anyone interested in applying should go to www.birmingham.gov.uk/pantohorse download the application form or call 0121 303 3008. The entrance fee is £50 and can be raised through sponsorship, with the winner of each race (one for colts, one for fillies) receiving a bottle of champagne and a trophy.
The event raises money for the Lord Mayor’s Charity Appeal, which this year is supporting Pancreatic Cancer Research, Engineering Scholarships, St Basil’s, Women Acting in Today’s Society (WAITS).
Entrants will don a one-person costume and will race along the course, cheered along by the crowds as they negotiate jumps and obstacles in their bid to become the champion! The fun event helps to kick off the start of the pantomime season in true British style – in homage to the famous Grand National at Aintree.
The route will start on Broad Street outside the Hyatt hotel, run down to Oozells Street and then back up Broad Street to finish in Centenary Square. All contestants are invited to a reception following the event, to thank them for their involvement.
Cllr Martin Mullaney, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport & Culture said, "This event is free for spectators to enjoy and is part of Birmingham’s family friendly programme of Christmas events and attractions. By participating in the race riders are raising money for local good causes. I have no doubt that even in these difficult times, warm-hearted Brummies will dig deep to help people who are less fortunate than themselves."
The Thomas Vale Pantomime Horse Grand National is organised by Birmingham City Council. For more information on Christmas events in Birmingham, please call 303 3008 or go to www.birmingham.gov.uk/christmas
