Thousands of spectators gathered on bank holiday Monday for the annual World Gravy Wrestling Championships held at Bacup cricket club in Lancashire.

The event, which began in 2007, featured contestants in elaborate costumes engaging in two-minute wrestling matches in a ring filled with approximately 1,500 liters of gravy.

Judges assessed competitors based on their wrestling skills, the creativity of their fancy dress, and the crowd's reaction. Among the costumes seen this year were representations of the Grinch and the character Ali G.

The gravy used for the competition is prepared by Andrew Holt at The Real Lancashire Black Pudding Company, utilizing a recipe from his grandmother. The mixture consists of three different thicknesses—thin and slippy, thick and gooey, and extra thick—which are combined and adjusted throughout the event to maintain consistency for all participants. Holt stated that the 1,500 liters of gravy produced is equivalent to the amount needed for 15,000 Sunday roasts.

Some 1,500 litres of gravy was produced for the event, enough to supply 15,000 Sunday roasts

Competitors were judged on the quality of both their wrestling and fancy dress, as well as the crowd reaction

The World Gravy Wrestling Championships serve as a fundraising event, with proceeds going to East Lancashire hospice. Participants also have the option to raise money for charities of their own choosing.

Held in Bacup, Lancashire, the event has been running since 2007 and features a series of two-minute bouts judged by a four-strong panel

Huge crowds gathered at Bacup cricket club to see the gravy-fighting event, which is almost 20 years old