The Up’ards, on the other hand, are trying to score the ball at the Sturston goal, on the east of the town. If the ball is not scored between 6pm and 10pm, play ends for that day. Shops board up ahead of the annual game (Picture: PA)Shrovetide ball games have been played in England since Henry II was on the throne between 1154 to 1189. Kicking, carrying and throwing the ball is also allowed, but the match is mainly made up of hugs. King Edward VIII turned up the ball in 1928 and suffered a bloody nose in the fracas, and in 2003 King Charles III threw the ball into play.

Source: Metro February 17, 2026 18:35 UTC