The Championships were devised in the 1970’s by George Burgess because he wanted to give England the chance to be world-beaters in at least one sporting sphere. But dreams were soon shattered when a visiting Canadian won the inaugural event. They were held annually at the Royale Oak at Wetton until 2003 when they moved to the Bentley Brook Inn and are played according to the rules of the World Toe Wrestling Organisation. The event is sponsored by Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream with all proceeds going to local charity ‘To Wish Upon a Star’ who arrange holidays for sick children.