THE War of the Roses took on a culinary flavour on Sunday in the World Black Pudding Throwing Championships.

Contestants from as far afield as Austria, Australia and South Africa attempted to knock down stacks of giant Yorkshire puddings by lobbing the traditional Lancashire delicacy.

The pouring rain did nothing to deter a record 500 people from taking part in the contest, outside the Bridge Street pub, Ramsbottom.

Three black puddings were thrown for £1 and all proceeds went to charity - the Stubbins Community Trust. First prize of £100 was won by John Burns, of Edenfield, near Bury, who dislodged seven puddings with three throws.

Local bands played and there were displays by the Crusaders motorbike club and American Army Jeeps.

Organiser Lee Gosling said: "We had a brilliant day. There was a really nice family atmosphere and lots of children took part."

The event had been a tradition in nearby Stubbins since the 1850s. But organisers had to find a new venue for the competition when its old home, the Corner Pin pub, closed in May last year. Royal Oak landlord Stuart Law stepped to resurrect the event.

It is believed the contest has its origins in clashes between Yorkshire and Lancashire clans.

One legend suggests that, during the War of the Roses, both sides ran out of ammunition and lobbed Yorkshire and black puddings at each other. Another claims the tradition was started by mill workers from the rival counties.