Hundreds of revellers lined the streets of Bury, Greater Manchester, on Sunday to witness the return of the annual World Black Pudding Throwing Championships. The event, a tradition for over three decades, had been canceled the previous year due to the death of its long-term leader.
The championship is said to be inspired by a 1455 battle during the War of the Roses. Competitors aim to knock Yorkshire puddings off a 25-foot scaffolding tower by throwing black puddings. The event also features live music, food stalls, and children's activities.
This year's event saw participants, including children, enjoying the festivities, which ran from approximately 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The competitor who knocks the most Yorkshire puddings from the tower wins £100, a trophy, and the title of World Black Pudding Throwing Champion.
However, the championships faced controversy last month when the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Foundation (PETA) urged organizers to use vegan alternatives instead of black puddings, citing concerns over animal welfare. Organizers stated that vegan alternatives are already offered and welcomed by competitors, though not compulsory.
The day's proceedings began with a performance by the Bolton Caledonia pipers. All proceeds from the event are being donated to Bury Hospice and the Ramsbottom Pantry.
Among the participants was Jacob Vahey, who is undertaking a '365 Sports Challenge' to compete in a different sport each day for a year to raise money for the mental health charity Campaign Against Living Miserably. Vahey, who traveled from Hull, described the black pudding throwing as one of the "weirdest sports" he has competed in, ranking it alongside activities like gravy wrestling and bog snorkelling.
Paul Jenkins, chair of the event's organizing committee, highlighted the event's growth from a small community gathering to a town-wide festival. He noted the significant funds raised for local charities and the community spirit evident on the day, with volunteers and attendees enjoying the activities under favorable weather conditions.