DEL Boy Trotter and Minnie Mouse were some of the high profile ‘stars’ lending their support to the 61st Wanborough Beer Race this weekend.

Around 50 thirsty runners took on the whistle-stop two-mile tour of five pubs, stopping albeit briefly, to sink a half pint at each watering hole.

Competition was fierce as the sprinters lined up at the Plough Inn, jostling each other, as well a yellow Robin Reliant, as the race kicked off.

Only Fools and Horses fans Tim and Rob Hunt donned their best camel coat and camouflage ensembles to dress up as wheeler dealers Derek and Rodney Trotter for the race.

They were joined by Tom Witts as Uncle Albert and Danny Maslin as Trigger, complete with broom.

As if juggling multiple props wasn’t enough to deal with, the group also toted a cardboard replica of the Trotter’s iconic three-wheeled van,

Rob, from Old Town said: “It’s a village tradition, it’s a real laugh and it’s something a bit different. I’ve been doing it for more than 10 years and it’s always something I really look forward to. Everyone really gets into the spirit of the occasion.”

Minnie Mouse, AKA Sue Jones, 64, said the beer race had a special place in her heart as a family tradition.

“I have been watching it ever since I was a child and it is so much fun and really brings out the best in the community.

Thomas Dominik, from Nythe, was taking part in his sixth beer race. This time he donned an Oktoberfest themed outfit with lederhosen.

The 25-year-old said: “It is a really good laugh and I love picking a funny a costume to run the race in.

“It is completely different to any other run you would normally do and I think that’s why it is so successful.

“I’m looking forward to having a few beers and the free hog roast. can’t wait to get started now.”

The pubs that now form part of the race are The New Calley Arms, The Plough Inn, The Harrow, The Brewers Arms and The Cross Keys.

Michael Kent, 48, is one of the organisers and a former champion, having run the race around 20 times.

He said: “It is a great day. The whole village turns out to watch.”