ON Sunday, October 5, Pilgrim Pete joined 65 mascot companions for the Mascot Grand National at Huntingdon race course.

With one furlong (about 220 yards) and six hurdles to tackle, all foam headed competitors knew that there was a lot of local pride at stake.

Pete Does His Warm-Ups

Pilgrim Pete completed his warm-ups before meeting some new friends, Captain Canary from Norwich and Haydon the Womble from Wimbledon.

When Grecian the Lion appeared, Pete got down to business and started to focus on the race.

Tail-Puller

At first there was a bit of rivalry with some tail-pulling and moustache-tugging, but in the end they decided to stay friends.

It was time to race and Pete had found himself a place on the front line and was ready to go for it.

The gun went and Pete ran but struggled to keep up with Leo the Lion from Huntingdon Leisure Centre.

The Competitors Gather For A Photo

But foul-play from Sheffield United's Captain Blade halted poor Leo's progress with an excellently times rugby tackle

This allowed last year's winner Wacky Macky Bear to pick up speed and take the title again.

Meanwhile, Pete and Grecian were still battling further down the pack, with Grecian leading for the almost entire race.

But with the weight of Green pride on his shoulders, Pete spotted his target with only a few yards to go and picked up pace.

Pete & Grecian Head For Home

As they came down the final straight they were neck and neck but with Grecian faltering, Pete made one last final push and won…by a hat.

Overall Pete came 17th which for a first timer was an excellent placing. In addition to this, Pete has raised over £750 for the Willow Foundation.

A Very Proud Pete Poses With His Medal

The donations page will remain open for a few more days with the overall fund-raising target being £1000. Please log onto www.justgiving.com/pilgrimpete to make a contribution.

Kris Wotton