PICTURES: Bonkers for conkers

Competitors for the S.C.O.T.C.H. team conker event at The Spotted Cow, Angmering. Pictures: Derek Martin DM16147905a

The event, held at The Spotted Cow in Angmering, was inaugurated in 1980 and named the Spotted Cow Organisation To Create Help conker competition.

This year, there was a total of 12 teams of three players competing.

Organiser Anthony Booty said: “It was a mainly sunny afternoon, with a few showers that did not deter the conkerers.

John Griffiths, left, and Scott Wooldridge battle it out DM16147887a

“Despite the low turnout, everyone seemed to have fun and people were playing conkers until late afternoon.

“An approximate total, for the day, in aid of Chestnut Tree House, is £500. Funds were raised by a raffle and barbecue.

“Live music was provided by The Neaps, who rocked the pub until early evening.”

The competition was run on a knockout basis, with all first-round losers eligible to play in The Plate Competition.

Isabella Searle, left, and Molly Campion, both aged 12 DM16147929a

Winning team Grooldridge, made up of Lauren Wooldridge, John Griffiths, 52, and Scot Wooldridge, 40, reprised their 2012 victory.

Previously, only two teams had won the competition more than once.

Runner-up was Dadanco, featuring Roger Anscombe, Charles Anscombe, 13, and Duncan Brindley.

Third place went to Conker Clowns, Finley Searle, Isabelle Searle and Molly Campion.

Plate winners were Panthers, Justin Cooper, Caitlin Cooper, ten, and Ashley Cooper, 12.

Mr Booty said: “The winners received medals, The AlleyCat Catteries Shield and a commemorative shield. The second and third teams, and the plate winners, all received medals.”

The most outstanding player, Tom Chapman, nine, received a commemorative trophy, a conker necklace and a tin of chocolates.