The River Thames once again played host to hundreds of Pooh Sticks enthusiasts yesterday for the 26th World Pooh Sticks Championship.

More than 1,000 people flocked to Day’s Lock, in Little Wittenham, from as far as Germany to try to come out on top in a game made famous by AA Milne’s Winnie the Pooh.

It involves dropping a stick from a bridge into the river below, then racing to the other side to see which one comes out first. Twigs are specially selected by the organisers to be roughly the same size and painted different colours to help spot the winner.

Oxford Spires Rotary Club president Dr Liz Williamson said: “The event draws so many people in because it’s such a simple thing to do. Anyone can grasp the rules in about 10 seconds.”

The event raises about £1,500, with this year’s proceeds being shared by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Rotary charities and the roof appeal at St Peter’s Church, Little Wittenham.