World black pudding throwing championships back in Ramsbottom

And it seems none of the competitors had lost any of their enthusiasm for this what can only be described as one of the strangest of international tournaments.

Hundreds travelled from across the country to be part of the symbolic tradition which has its origins the War of the Roses. Competitors attempt to dislodge giant Yorkshire puddings from a 20ft high plinth by throwing black puddings.

The festivities were cancelled last year due to Covid.

Participants paid £1 for three attempts to dislodge as many puddings as they could from two ledges high up on a scaffolding set up outside the Oaks Pub on Bridge Street.

The fee of £1 has not changed since 1984. Early on a number of people managed to dislodge four puddings with several people tied at the top of the leaderboard. Most, however, were finding it almost impossible to even hit the target

Children as young as three lined up with pensioners to have a try. People had travelled from Norwich, Bristol and Leicester to take part.

Will from Manchester said: “It is a lot harder than it looks as you are only allowed to use an under-arm technique. I think there must be a perfect way of doing it and anyone who can knock four off has done great.”

Jessie was happy just to watch, “We have been here all day. It is just wonderful to be out and here again. It is so much fun watching people of all ages have a go.”

The championship, which commemorates Lancastrians who repelled raiding parties from Yorkshire during the War of the Roses, has been organised by the Stubbins Community Trust since 1984.

The custom is believed to derive from an incident when the two sides allegedly resorted to throwing food at each other when their ammunition ran out. Black pudding was thrown by the Lancashire troops, while Yorkshire puddings were thrown by their counterparts.

A whole host of stalls offering antiques to vintage clothes were on display.