Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Windsor Conkers Keep World Conker Championships On Track As New Champions Crowned

A castle donation eased a drought-hit shortage that had threatened the charity event.

A competitor is inspected at 'steel conker detector' on entry at the annual World Conker Championships in Southwick, Britain October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Temilade Adelaja
Visitors walk past a model of a giant conker at the annual World Conker championships, in Southwick, Britain October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Temilade Adelaja
Competitors take part in the first round of the annual World Conker Championships in Southwick, Britain, October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Temilade Adelaja
A competitor swings his conker during the first round of the annual World Conker Championships in Southwick, Britain, October 12, 2025. REUTERS/Temilade Adelaja

Overview

  • The tournament went ahead on 12 October at the Shuckburgh Arms in Southwick, Northamptonshire, with 256 competitors from nine countries taking part.
  • Civil servant Matt Cross won the overall crown after defeating women’s title-holder Mags Blake in the final.
  • Organisers introduced airport-style scanners, pocket trays and a large magnet after the 2024 cheating probe, and one entrant was disqualified for attempting to bring a personal conker.
  • A parcel of more than 300 high-quality conkers from Windsor Castle was reserved for the finals and supplemented by donations from Italy and France.
  • Organisers said they have asked the Prince and Princess of Wales to appoint Prince Louis as honorary patron and are awaiting a reply.