THE World Gravy Wrestling Championships was not short of thrills and spills.

Hundreds of spectators gathered at the Rose 'N’ Bowl pub in Stacksteads to watch brave competitors challenge each other in 1,500 litres of the brown sauce.

Brave men and women battled it out for two minutes and were scored points for fancy dress, comedy effort and entertainment.

The 11th annual event was raising funds for East Lancashire Hospice and aimed to reach £3,000.

Costumes including police uniforms, wedding dresses and wrestlers.

Andrew Holt, one of the events organisers, said: “We wanted to go bigger this year and its been great.

“There was 16 men and eight women taking part and they all had a great time.

“We put this on because its something the whole of the village, and beyond, can get behind.

“There was a real community spirit with lots of people here to enjoy themselves.

“We hoped for good weather, it wasn’t too hot and it was bright.

“It’s also become a good platform for the contestants to raise money for their own charities.”

There was music, food and other entertainment for spectators to enjoy.

The event was first held 11-years-ago in a car park in Wigan in front of a dozen people and has grown in popularity ever since.

Mr Holt said: “The volunteers behind this event have been incredible.

“They do so much without everyone knowing and they deserve so much credit.

“This is something everyone can look back on and say they had a really good time.

“We hope to see everyone again next year.”