Hundreds of people will be descending on a Nantwich primary school this weekend for the globally popular World Worm Charming Championships.
The event, now in its 35th year since being relaunched, has fascinated audiences across the world.
And once again, organisers are expecting plenty of interest when it is held this Saturday June 28 at Willaston Primary School.
Competitors pay £5 for a small plot, or £10 for a team plot, and have 30 minutes to entice as many worms out of the ground as possible.
Last year, 144 plots were snapped up with competitors coming from as far afield as Australia, Holland, India, Sweden and the Philippines.
BBC Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton also joined in the fun as they filmed for an episode of the popular children’s programme.
Techniques used to lure out the worms included vibrating a garden fork, singing, playing a musical instrument and riding an adapted bicycle.
Eight-year old Ellie-Jay Morris and granddad Steve Palmer were the 2013 winners with 303 worms (pictured, below)
The world record was set back in 2009 by a local couple who charmed a staggering 567 worms out.
This year’s event starts from 1pm, entry is £1 for adults and 50p for children/oaps.
Jeanette Hopkins, chair of The Friends of Willaston School Association, said: “There will be plenty of stalls to keep everyone entertained including tombolas, inflatable slide and obstacle course, whack a rat, wheel of fortune, refreshments and cake stall to name a few!”
The actual worm charming will take place at 2pm.
Plot fees are £5 (two-person plot) or £10 team plot, subject to availability.
Any plots unclaimed 10 minutes before the start of Worm Charming will be re-issued.
For more details on entering and to get in touch with organisers, visit their website.
(pictures courtesy of Jonathan White)
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