Hundreds flock to Kent village to watch chaotic World Custard Pie Championships
Hundreds of spectators flocked to Coxheath Village Hall in Maidstone, Kent, on Saturday to witness the complex but competitive World Custard Pie Championship.
The annual event, which first started in 1967, saw 27 teams compete for the coveted trophy.
This year, victory went to The Old School Ravers, who emerged victorious from the pudding-slinging chaos. Competitors earn points by throwing paper plates filled with special custard cake mix at their opponents.
A direct hit to the face scores six points, while a hit to the shoulders or above scores three points. Anything below this records a single point.
Geoff Cooke, one of the event’s organizers and host, described it as a “fantastic day” and “really good fun”.
He added: “It’s a fun family day out. People come here quite early and stake their claim on a pitch and stay there all day.” An estimated 1,500 people attended this unique show.
The championships originally started as a fundraiser for the village hall, with proceeds now going to local charities.
Mr Cooke also revealed that the recipe for the famous pies remains a “closely guarded secret”. He explained: “These contain flour and water, but consistency is key. Highly skilled workers prepare the pudding for us.”
Fans of this strange competition will have to wait another year for the next championship, which is scheduled for June 12, 2027.
