Newspaper article about the cancellation of 2023 Shirt Race, which had been one of Oxfordshire’s most popular social events was cancelled in 2023 , The historic Great Shirt Race at Bampton, organised by the Spajers (the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Junketing) - has delighted hundreds of people annually for seven decades. Cancelled because three committee members had resigned. Don Rouse, one of the organisers still in post, was Master of Ceremonies at this race since 1970.
The modern version began in 1953 when village gasman John Quick, farmer Doug Read and fishmonger Paul Bevington dreamed up the idea of a pram race through the streets to celebrate the Queen’s Coronation.

Photos of the Shirt Race in 2024, Copy of programme and 34 photographs showing the amazing fancy dress and the crowds enjoying the event, which happens every year on Whit Saturday and is organised by the SPAJERS.

Together with Paul Bovington, John Quick founded SPAJERS in 1953 as a 'one-off event ' to celebrate the Queen's coronation. Following the passing of John, a flowering cherry tree was planted in his memory in the grounds of the War Memorial. In the photos can be seen Edie, John's widow, together with his son Kenny. Also representing the SPAJERS are Don Rouse and Frank Hudson.

2024 Programme for the Donkey Derby, annual event held on August Bank Holiday and organised by the SPAJERS. Proceeds from this go to the senior citizens of Bampton and used to provide a monetary Christmas gift and possible summer outing. The Donkeys are ridden by children in races, which are sponsored by local businesses and bets are made on the winners. Held in Sandford's Field with accompanying Fete.

2004 Programme for the Donkey Derby, annual event held on August Bank Holiday and organised by the SPAJERS. Proceeds from this go to the senior citizens of Bampton and used to provide a monetary Christmas gift and possible summer outing. The Donkeys are ridden by children in races, which are sponsored by local businesses and bets are made on the winners. Held in Sandford's Field with accompanying Fete.

Shirt Race 1976
L-R Richard Snook, Mike Smith; beinmg presented with cup from George Hunt & Harry Hampton who were the 1st ever Shirt Race winners

Photos of the Shirt Race in 2019 117 photographs showing the amazing fancy dress and the crowds enjoying the event, which happens every year on Whit Saturday and is organised by the SPAJERS.

Don & Mary Rouse celebrate 60 years of marriage

Donkey Derby 2017 held on August Bank Holiday in Sandfords Field

Photograph of Shirt race 1954. Organised by the SPAJERS Harry Hampton at back