THRILLS and spills are on the agenda as a popular village tradition makes its anticipated return.

The Finchingfield three-legged race is back this weekend and is expected to attract lots of interest.

A long-standing tradition in the Finchingfield Village, the race was brought back in 1998 after a break.

It’s the largest social event of the year with the whole village typically turning out.

The race can attract up to 1,000 visitors from all around.

Up to 30 teams take part in the event, which involves teams drinking from all three village pubs and racing through the pond twice while tied to another person.

The event day features visits to the Fox, the Finchingfield Lion and the Three Tuns.

There will also be two children's races on the day, as well as stalls and other activities.

Event spokesman Lee Rider said: “This event really brings the community together, particularly post covid.

“There was a lot of events cancelled during that time and Finchingfield is a really close knit community which benefits from having local events.

“Our elderly population really love it too, to get out and meet and interact with people they might not normally.”

The race, organised by Finche Community Group, raises money for youth activities and equipment in the parish.

This year, the group is steadily working towards its goal of building a local BMX track for the village.

Mr Rider added: “People are excited and the interest is really popular this year.

“I would say we have never had so much pre-race interest whether that is to spectate, volunteer, or take part.

“People just want to get out and about.”

The organising team is also hoping to help people who may be struggling financially enjoy their time too.

Mr Rider said: “It’s always a packed event but we are conscious that people are starting to feel the pinch.

“This is why we are keeping the cost of things like food and drink as cheap as possible, on the day to give people real value for money, it won’t cost an arm and a leg.”

This year’s annual Finchingfield three-legged race takes place this Sunday, September 11, from 1pm.