The First National Dyke Jumping Championships

From the collection of

East Anglian Film Archive at the University of East Anglia
The East Anglian Film Archive, the UK's first regional film archive, offers a unique record of the East of England's social and cultural history. As part of the University of East Anglia, we continue to lead moving image heritage research and inspire audience participation through community projects and events. Our collections represent a broad range of amateur and professional creativity, from 1896 to the present day.

The First National Dyke Jumping Championships


What is the secret to a successful dyke-jump? Apparently it's all in the push-off! This daft Fenland sport, looks like a whole lot of fun.

In 1980, in addition to the pleasant walks, picnics, and bird watching, Ferry Meadows Country Park becomes home to the first National Dyke Jumping Championships. The Fenland sport, which Guy Michelmore describes as 'just plain daft', attracts a swathe of competitors, who attempt to pole-vault across a five metre narrow waterway. All get a soaking, plunging into the cold and muddy water, but that's all part of the fun - with whoops, cheers, and a few groans from the crowds.

True to news broadcasting tradition, a have-a-go reporter (Anglia TV's Guy Michelmore) gets stuck in and takes a turn over the water. Dave “Boy” Green, former British boxing champion, known as the “Fen Tiger” is guest of honour and opens the championships. There are also interviews with the winner Chris Douse, and Martin Armstrong, organiser.


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