IT’s the original pram and is still going strong 50 years on.

The Ropley Pram Race, near Alresford, came about in 1965 as a light-hearted suggestion after a friendly evening at the Anchor pub.

The four original contestants were Dick Newman, Bob and Les Etherington and Ted Fordred who was the landlord of the Anchor.

It became an annual event, held on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday, which has enjoyed unbroken continuity for 50 years.

To mark this remarkable achievement the Pram Race this year will be an even more spectacular event with the addition of a Fun Dog Show, entry forms for which can be found in the Ropley Courtyard Shop, a display by the popular Minden Rose Dancers, the ever popular Punch and Judy and live music.

The increased number of stalls will include local organisations, a range of craft stalls, cream teas arranged by The Courtyard Shop, numerous games and sideshows, including a Raffle, plant stall, home-made cakes and the local tennis club’s popular Fruit Kebab stand. There really will be something for everyone, says organisers.

For those with a taste for nostalgia there will be a display of photographs and memorabilia highlighting the 50 years of the race.

One of those who took part in the first race, Harry Woollhead, a local builder, will be racing this year along with, what is expected to be, a greatly increased field of prams and runners.

The Newts, a group of local men, who have entertained for many years with their incredible creations will have something very special on display for this 50th Anniversary.

The race takes place on Monday May 25 at the Recreation Ground, Vicarage Lane, with events starting at about 10.30am and finishing late afternoon. Everyone is welcome.

Admission to the Recreation Ground is free and there will be ample parking in one of the nearby fields.

A Ropley Golden Jubilee to take part in and be part of, we can promise that it will be a memorable occasion for all ages.