In pictures: World Conker Championships

Stevie Wray, 13, from Milton Keynes

"I've just won my first game and I am pleased."

His dad and personal trainer adds: "We've been collecting conkers from the local park and practising, playing 'Eye of the Tiger' and that kind of thing to get him into top shape."

Whereas adults have to register in advance to compete, children can enter on the day.

Schools in the Ashton area are not among those which have banned conker games in the playground.