Conker parcels save Northumberland competition

Parcels of conkers arrived in the post

A threatened conker competition will now go ahead after a successful appeal for larger horse chestnuts.

There had been fears that a poor crop would lead to the cancellation of the traditional event at Bardon Mill in Northumberland.

Following a request for conkers of the right size - at least 5cm (2in) - organisers began receiving them from as far afield as Kent.

The Bardon Mill and Roman Empire Conker Championship is set to start later.

Geeta Bannister, one of the organisers, said: "We've received a lot of parcels through the post containing conkers.

"A parcel from Kent just had one conker in it.

"We're really delighted because its meant the game can go ahead and not let down the tradition of the last 15 years."

Conkers and strings will be provided and there will be competitions for four different age groups.