The community group in charge of the event says they have taken the ‘difficult decision’ to cancel this year’s contest
Crowds gather at last year’s championship(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
This year’s World Black Pudding Throwing Championship in Ramsbottom has been cancelled following the death of its main organiser, it’s been announced.
The unique and long-standing local custom, which sees participants compete to knock the most Yorkshire puddings off a scaffold by chucking black puddings at them, was due to take place on September 13. But, following the death of organiser Phil Taylor earlier this year, the community group in charge of the event says they have taken the ‘difficult decision’ to cancel this year’s contest.
In a post in the World Black Pudding Throwing Championship Facebook group Jonny Nice said: “Members of Stubbins Village Community Trust (SVCT), who have organised and managed the World Black Pudding Throwing Championships and associated Pudfest music event over the last 25 years, have made the difficult decision to call off the 2025 event. Administrative challenges, following the passing on the WBPTCs lead organiser Phil Taylor earlier this year, have proven to be insurmountable in the time available.
Stay connected with our City Life newsletter here
“The Trust have made this call in order to give adequate notice to all those directly involved in delivering the event. The SVCT met with other key parties earlier this week and agreed this decision.
“In the meantime we are sure that the people of Stubbins and Ramsbottom who have enjoyed the day of unique sport and local musical talent over the many years give appreciation for Phil, without whom the event wouldn’t have become such a loved and longstanding event. The Trust will reconvene later this year to review the organisation of and plans for the event going forwards.”
Join our Family WhatsApp group HERE
Following Phil’s death, in hospital aged 73 on February 12, tributes flooded in from across the community. Irwell Works Brewery, his local pub, said: “Phil was such a massive asset to the community, organiser of the world famous black pudding fest, motorbike enthusiast, extremely passionate gardener. His heart was filled to the brim with kindness.”