This weekend, the self-styled World Black Pudding Throwing Championships return to Ramsbottom. The unique competition will see old War of Roses rivalries reignited this Sunday, as competitors young and old hurl black puddings at a pile of Yorkshire puddings and see how many they can knock down.
The rather quirky contest, which usually takes place on the second Sunday of September, was originally held outside the Corner Pin pub but now takes place at The Oaks pub on Bridge Street.
It's said that the tradition dates back to the War of Roses, when warring factions of the House of Lancaster and House of York are said to have used up all their ammunition and resorted to throwing food at each other. Revived in 1839, and later in the 1980s by the Stubbins Community Trust, it has become a a much-loved custom in the town since, drawing in spectators from all over. Here we break down everything you need to know about the championships.
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What does the competition involve?
The annual contest sees competitors hurl the Bury speciality at a dozen Yorkshire puddings piled on a plinth up a 20ft-high tower to see who can knock the most down - with underarm ‘lobbing’ throws only, and from a standing position on a purpose-built stand called the oche. Typically, all black puddings are wrapped in tights so to keep the delicacy together.
Where did the tradition come from?
The tradition is said to date back to 1455, when warring factions of the House of Lancaster and the House of York met for battle in nearby Stubbins. Apparently, when troops ran out of ammunition they resorted to throwing food at each other - black puddings from Lancashire and Yorkshire puddings from Yorkshire.
When does it take place?
Revived by residents in the 1980s, it has been a popular custom in Ramsbottom ever since, drawing thousands of spectators to watch and enjoy a fun-filled day of competitive hurling, as well as music and food. This year's competition will take place outside The Oaks and will start at 11am and run until 4pm. In the Memories Courtyard to the rear of the pub, there will be a number of musical acts taking to the stage including Cotton Panic Blues and Ramsbottom DJs Mart & Baz.
Who can take part?
Anyone is welcome to join in - it costs £1 for 3 goes. However, if you're more into eating than lobbing pies, then you'll be pleased to know they will also be sold at the event for general consumption.
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