'SIMPLE but not easy' was how organiser Jim Cunliffe described his sport.

Pudding lobbers from all over the world descended on Ramsbottom on Sunday for the return of The Official World Black Pudding Throwing Championship.

There were competitors from Toronto, Brisbane, Wales and of course plenty from Ramsbottom and Bury.

Returning competitor Nick Pennell, aged 45 from Wombourne near Wolverhampton was victorious on the day, successfully knocking five Yorkshire puddings from the 20ft high plinth.

Mr Pennell said: "I'm ecstatic, I've been before but never won. We're going to celebrate with a few beers, myself, my manager and my personal trainer."

He said: "My technique is right foot forward on the golden grate, lob it up and aim above the Yorkshire's and drop it down on them."

He takes home £100 prize money and a trophy.

Another organiser, Phil Taylor said during the championships: "It's brilliant. Despite the weather we have had all sorts of people come down and take part.

"The youngest is two years old, the oldest we have had, I've no idea.

"We had a guy who was technically blind and a young lad in a wheelchair take part, it's for everyone."

John MacDonald, aged 47, who lives in Bolton Street, Ramsbottom was the severely sight impaired man who took part, he tried his arm a few times but like most people who take part, failed to bring a Yorkshire down.

He said: "I've not done it before but I live locally and thought I should give it a go.

"I hit the plinth but didn't bring any down."

The Pollard family had brought seven members of their family to event.

Liz Pollard and Ben Bristowe were taking part with Ben looking after nine-week-old Ella, who was strapped to his chest.

Mr Bristowe, from Tottington, said: "I'm here to win, but the chances are probably slim to none.

"But Ella is helping, she's sending me good vibes but she's disappointed I promised I would knock them off for her."

Mr Cunliffe said: "It's been a horrible day but we have done brilliant.

"Everyone wants to take part but it's not easy.

"It's simple but it's not easy."

He added the Yorkshire's this year had been affected by the rain, which had made them soft but people were still able to knock them down.

The championships were held from 11am to 4pm today outside The Oaks in Bridge Street.

It was £1 for three attempts and children could take part trying to knock them off a 10ft high plinth.