Especially peculiar is the size of the playing field and the length of play.
Shrovetide ball games have been played in England since at least the 12th century.
Photo credit:Christopher Furlong/The Guardian
The game is played between Up’Ards and the Down’Ards.
The Up’Ards are those town members born north of the town, while Down’Ards are those born south.
The game starts each day at 2 pm and last until 10 pm.
The game takes place throughout the town, although certain areas such as church and cemeteries are avoided.
Getting injured is part of the game.
Photo credit:Will De Freitas/Flickr
