World Conker Championships organiser from Stamford village crowned "Anorak of the Year 2025" by the Dull Men's Club

World Conker Championships organiser St John Burkett has been crowned ‘Anorak of the Year 2025’ by the club, which celebrates ‘the ordinary’.

But the 65 year-old from Barnack was not offended by the title - ironically describing the dull honour as one of the “highlights” of his life.

"I am absolutely delighted to have been named 'Anorak of the Year',” said John, a former head teacher.

“This is highly prestigious and is the most appropriate award for someone so closely involved with the promotion of conkers.

“I've been involved with The World Conker Championships for over 35 years, and the best I've ever done in competition is runner-up in 1995. I've loved working with the committee over the years, although whether they would also consider it an honour to be named as ‘Dull Person of the Year’ is another matter.”

He added: “I thank the Dull Men's Club for their selection, which has to be a life highlight.”

The Dull Men’s club was formed in New York by its founder Grover Click – who first chose to feature the Conker Championships in the club’s 2024 calendar.

Speaking to the Peterborough Telegraph, Grover said: “This award is being presented to St John for his outstanding work on introducing people from all around the world to the exhilarating game of conkers, culminating with the World Conker Championships every October. It is played using only two simple things - a conker and a piece of string. He is truly is ‘Celebrating the Ordinary’ - our club’s motto."

The World Conker Championships has been running since 1965, and has raised more than £440,000 for blind and partially-sighted charities in that time.

The Anorak of the Year Award 2025 will be presented to John at a London meet-up on January 18.