SLIDESHOW - World Coal Carrying Championships in Gawthorpe

Crowds lined the streets of Gawthorpe for the 51st World Coal Carrying Championships.

Men, women and children took part in the world-famous event, which has grown in popularity since it was first held in the village in 1963.

Entrants haul sacks of coal along a 1000-metre route from the Royal Oak pub on Owl Lane to the village green for the Easter Monday tradition.

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Winner of the mens’ event was Chris Birkin, from Chickenley, who finished in 4 minutes and 46 seconds.

The veteran men’s race for over 40s was won by John Hunter, of Scarborough, who had previously won three times, finishing in 4 mins 57 secs.

The women’s race was won by Penny Ditchfield, 37, of Huddersfield, in 4 mins 39 secs.

The youth race was won by the only entrant Brandon Omeila, 15, who carried a 10kg sack of coal.

Men carry a 50kg sack of coal, women haul a 20kg sack and children carry 10kg in the race.