No kidding: Cambridge leads the way at last year's Oxbridge Goat Race at Spitalfields City Farm

While the traditional river Thames boat race between Oxford and Cambridge was being plunged into chaos by an anti-elitism protest last weekend, the East End of London celebrated its own tradition – an annual goat race.

As a lone protester made a splash in west London, across the city in Spitalfields two goats took part in a nail-biting race - each representing one of the prestigious universities.

The two golden Guernsey goats, called Bentley and Bramble, set off on their 200 metre sprint at the City Farm at 4pm. But unlike in the rowing, no class war protests marred the action.

Around 1,700 people turned out to watch the goats race round the cobbled racetrack at the farm in Buxton Street.

Cambridge won for the fourth year in a row, with a time of one minute, 26 seconds. Oxford followed hot on his heels, finishing just two seconds later.

Live music, goat-themed market stalls, arts, locally brewed beer and even a treehouse bar were also on offer throughout the afternoon.

Race organiser Anthony Goh said: “It was a fantastic day, there was a real carnival atmosphere. This year for the first time we had a proper sound system and a commentary booth, so it felt like a proper party.”

All proceeds from the race will go towards the upkeep of Spitalfields City Farm.