It’s nearly that time of year! That’s right, one of the true highlights of the autumn calendar – the Conker World Championships in Southwick – is almost upon us!
With roots dating back to 1965, the World Conker Championships attracts thousands of spectators and hundreds of competitors from across the globe, all sharing a mutual love for conkers, tradition and spectacle.
Last year’s champions were Mark Hunter (king) and Jasmin Tetley (queen), the latter of whom also boasts the honour of being a three-time champ.
Organisers believe contenders from far and wide – including overseas – will be champing at the bit to get stuck into the reigning champs
In addition to upholding a much-loved and timeless British tradition, the event also plays a crucial role in supporting local economies by drawing visitors, media coverage, and business opportunities to this often overlooked enclave of rural Northamptonshire.
The Championship’s organiser, St.John Burkett said financial support is vital to the event’s continued success:
The World Conker Championships play a vital role in our local community,” he said, “[but] events like this need the support... to continue running.”
Fortunately, this year’s event has been backed by Allica Bank, the UK’s only full-service bank focused exclusively on established SMEs.
“It’s great that someone like Allica Bank sees the importance that these events, as well as local business and people, play in the community,” Mr Burkett said.
Wahid Nawaz, local relationship manager at Allica Bank said his company was delighted to support the event: "The World Conker Championships have a remarkable cultural significance in Northamptonshire, bringing together competitors, families, and businesses in a way that supports the local economy," he said.
This year’s event will be held on Sunday October 13.
More information is available at www.worldconkerchampionships.com/
And if you can’t wait to get your conker on then check out our gallery of last year’s action!
1. 2023 World Conker Championships
Action from last year's event in the village of Southwick, near Oundle Photo: Dave Hodson
2. 2023 World Conker Championships
Action from last year's event in the village of Southwick, near Oundle Photo: Dave Hodson
3. 2023 World Conker Championships
Last year's victorious champs, Mark Hunter and Jasmine Tetley defeated all comers to be crowned the Conker World Championship's king and queen. Photo: Dave Hodson
4. 2023 World Conker Championships
Action from last year's event in the village of Southwick, near Oundle Photo: Dave Hodson