World Gravy Wrestling Championships looking for new home

The annual World Gravy Wrestling Championships, which sees competitors wrestle in a giant pool of Lancashire gravy while dressed in fancy dress costumes, is now looking for a new base capable of hosting more than 1,500 spectators.

For years, the event has been held at The Rose ‘N’ Bowl, but organisers say the growing popularity of the charity fundraiser has created logistical challenges.

Jessica Holt, from The Real Black Pudding Company, said: “The Rose N Bowl have asked us to find a new venue, due to their size.

“The event and the sheer amount of people that turn up on the day, as you can imagine, pose a lot of logistical issues. Often, by about an hour into it, we are operating a one-out, one-in policy.

“It wasn’t an easy decision on their part, but we completely understand and we honestly can’t thank them enough for all the wonderful years and effort they have put into the gravy wrestling.

“At present we have had quite a lot of applications from local venues, as it is our aim to keep this in Rossendale, and we will be assessing the suitability of these.

“The most important thing is that the event continues, so we can raise money for East Lancashire Hospice and all the good work they do.”

The championships see wrestlers enter a pool filled with gravy for two-minute bouts judged on entertainment value, costumes and comedy rather than sporting ability.

Organisers say the event is “all about the fun factor” and attracts competitors and spectators from across the country every year.

Previous events have included cheerleading performances, bouncy castles, face painting, craft beer stalls, tombolas, and family activities alongside the wrestling itself.

Money raised from the championships supports East Lancashire Hospice, which provides care and support for people with life-limiting illnesses across Blackburn, Darwen, Accrington, and Clitheroe.