AN Ely potato producer is once again looking to put a little fun into this year’s harvest by running a potato race.

Isle of Ely Produce, based in Littleport, supported by National Farmers’ Union (NFU) are gearing up for the relay race to celebrate the start of the harvest festival.

The event will see teams race from the farmers’ market in Market Place, Ely, to the bottom of the High Street near the cathedral, with each competitor required to run the race with a bag of potatoes on his or her back for the duration of the course.

Isle of Ely holds a similar event in the streets of Flitton, Bedfordshire, where it also has a base, and the race has been taking place there for more than 100 years.

Isle of Ely director Oliver Boutwood said “We had a great response to last years race, with our local farmers and companies to joining in”.

“Once again we are looking for local farmers and members of the public to join in with a team of two for the event, with a cup for the first team home. There’s a small entry fee of £10 for each team which will be donated to charity.”

If you are interested in entering the Ely Potato Race, please e-mail austen@isleofely.co.uk. The race will take place at about 11am on Saturday, October 12.

Last years winners who will be defending their crown were PJ Lee & Sons from Ely. (pictured). The winning duo from this year will receive £100 cash prize. All competitors get to keep their potatoes as part of their entry fee.