2013 World Conker Championships – in pictures

Sophie Knox from Harrogate takes aim at the conker held by Laura Cook from Northampton in the women's final of the World Conker Championships. The competition was staged at the Shuckburgh Arms in Southwick, Northamptonshire. Photograph: Mary Turner/Getty Images

Oliver Simons, 13, swings his conker during his youth final match against Louie Ireland, 11. Photograph: Suzanne Plunkett/Reuters

Spectators young and old – including the self-proclaimed Sir Smash-a-lot – watch the World Conker Championships. Photograph: Suzanne Plunkett/Reuters

Dramatic silhouettes as competitors take part in the World Conker Championships. Photograph: Mary Turner/Getty Images

Oliver Wheatley, 6, takes part in the children's final. Photograph: Mary Turner/Getty Images

Rain-soaked scorecards and an official measuring gauge at the World Conker Championships. Photograph: Suzanne Plunkett/Reuters

St John Burkett, one of the organisers of the World Conker Championships, competes in the second round. Photograph: Mary Turner/Getty Images

Stephanie Withall is buzzing after her first round win against Maurice Hurrell. Photograph: Suzanne Plunkett/Reuters

An aerial view of the competition. Photograph: Chris Radburn/PA

Steward David Jakins – also known as King Conker – holds competition conkers. Photograph: Suzanne Plunkett/Reuters

The Conker Queen and King – Sophie Knox from Harrogate and Simon Cullum from Kettering – celebrate after their victories at the World Conker Championships. Photograph: Chris Radburn/PA