Eleven injured in cheese race

Ancient tradition: dates back to pre-Roman times

Eleven people have been treated for minor injuries following an annual cheeserolling competition.

The ancient tradition, thought to date back to pre-Roman times, took place in Brockworth near Gloucester on Monday and attracted thousands of spectators.

About 50 daredevils took part in four races during which an 8lb Double Gloucester cheese was rolled down a 300-yard slope, with a one-in-two gradient, on Cooper's Hill.

Eleven injured

Following the race 11 people were treated for minor injuries, including sprains, tissue damage and a dislocated shoulder. One person was taken to hospital.

But St John's Ambulance spokesman Jason Ludd said: "In the past we have treated up to 30 and taken four or five to hospital so this was quite a good year."

Two years ago the event was cancelled after 27 competitors and spectators were treated by paramedics for leg and neck injuries the previous yea.

Winner: Craig Brown

Veteran winner Steve Brain, 32, from Gloucester, had his title as the top cheese roller snatched from him by fellow competitor Craig Brown, 26, also from Gloucester.

Rugby player Steve was on his way to winning a hat-trick of races as he did last year, but was beaten this year on the third run by pub landlord Craig.

Between 15 and 20 men took part in each male race and seven women ran in the female race.

'Scary'

The women's winner was 16-year-old Kirby Shepherd from Brockworth.

Kirby Shepherd: Lost balance

She injured her right leg as she tumbled down the slope unable to keep her balance.

She said: "I don't even like cheese. My friends made me do it as a dare.

"It was scary. I ran and then buckled. I am not coming back next year although I feel quite proud about winning."