Where: At Congham Fete, Grimston Cricket Club field (beside Congham Hall), Norfolk
£: Free
What is it?
The World Snail Racing Championships 2013 will take place at Congham Fete in Norfolk on 20th July. More than 200 snails slug it out every year in the championships, which have been running since the 1960s.
The races are held on top of a table which has a damp cloth spread out on it. The snails are placed in the middle and the first one to reach the outer circle wins. The races are started by a shout of “Ready, steady, slow” and the snail ‘trainers’ shout words of encouragement to their prize snails. Competitors may bring their own snails from the garden if they wish. Heats are held throughout the afternoon at the fete with a grand final at the end. The winner receives a silver tankard stuffed with lettuce leaves (a reward for the snail).
The fete at Congham this year will also feature sideshows, raffles, refreshments, stalls and games. Proceeds from the fete will go towards Congham Church.
More info: www.snailracing.net