Entry for the adult competition is now closed but you can still go down and watch and enjoy the cracking of conker on conker as the elites of the horse-chestnut world do battle.

The village of Ashton has played host to the championships since their inaugural event in 1965, with the village green being transformed into a sporting arena complete with competition podiums.

This year entrants have registered from as far away as Brazil, Benin and the Philippines for this most traditional of English competitions.

The opening ceremony takes place at 10.30am, with the finals and prize presentations at 2pm.

And there is also plenty of other entertainment through the day, with around 50 stalls, and performances by morris dancers, traditional Molly dancers Pig Dyke Molly and Peterborough Samba Band.

A bouncy castle, trampolines and more will keep the kids busy, and the village pub, which has supported the event since its beginnings, will keep the drinks flowing for the adults.

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Each year around 450 players take part in the competition, with the eventual male and female winners being led to the Conker Throne to be crowned with conkers.

The tradition began when drinkers at the village pub had to cancel a fishing trip due to bad weather and came up with the competition as an alternative.

Since then it has grown and become international, with the title first being taken overseas in 1976 when a Mexican conquered the opposition.

Over its 43 year history it has raised more than £334,000 for charity.

Spectators' entry costs £4 for adults and £2 for senior citizens and children. Family tickets for two adults and up to four children cost £10.

Under-18s can enter the junior competition on the day and conkers are supplied.