Hundreds gather for annual Boxing Day tug of war in Knaresborough

Hundreds of people gathered to watch an annual tug of war competition between two rival Yorkshire pubs.

The Boxing Day tradition in Knaresborough dates back to 1968 and sees teams from The Half Moon Free House and Mother Shipton’s Inn compete from opposite sides of the River Nidd.

This year’s men’s trophy was claimed by Mother Shipton’s Inn, while the women’s title went to The Half Moon.

Tom Clarkson, landlord of The Half Moon, said: “It’s one of Knaresborough’s many crazy traditions, I just love being a part of making a day special for everyone.”

The event typically attracts up to 1,000 spectators and raises money for local charities.

While Mr Clarkson described the event as “a bit of Boxing Day daftness”, he was quick to add that it was still very much a contest.

“We say it’s friendly, but there’s obviously a bit of rivalry,” he said.

“We get to win a nicely polished trophy, it’s as simple as that.”

The time-honoured tradition has become a staple for locals such as Sarah Baxter, who moved back from London a few years ago.

“I used to come as a child, so it’s a big family tradition of mine and now we’re bringing our kids here now as well,” she said.

“So, just reliving the youth and coming back where it all began.”

Carla Given no longer lives in the town but enjoys the annual catch-up with friends and family.

She said: “We come to tug of war because it’s just so nice to be out with the family, having a bit of a walk, but also you just bump into so many people that you know over the festive period.”

Eoghan Given, added: “I come to support the local businesses at this time of year and drink some of their beer and bump into friends and family and enjoy cheering on the hard workers pulling their rope.”