Stone skimming coming to Shropshire again
Skimming stones is an activity that needs a calm land-locked lake rather than a raging sea.
But this year the British Stone Skimming Championships will raise money for the RNLI, the charity that keeps lifeboats on the waves across the UK, it has been revealed.
The quirky Shropshire-based event will take place in mid-July this year, a month earlier than 2016's August event but slightly later than the June date of years before that.
The day sees hundreds of serious skimmers from all over the country come to Walcot Lake at Lydbury North, near Bishop’s Castle, to compete for longest throw, alongside stone-throwing games for all the family.
Last year saw its triumphant return, more popular than ever, after a year off in 2015.
With less than two months to go the call has gone out for more volunteer help, and organiser Heather Aston has also revealed a new charity that the day will support this year.
She said: "The British Stone Skimming Championships and Stone Games will this year be supporting the RNLI.
"As Shropshire is a county deprived of any coastline we have been questioned about the choice of charity, but of course the RNLI is not only about providing help at sea, it also helps to save us from rivers and floods.
"We hope to promote a respect for water both at home and when we are holidaying by the sea.
"Other changes to the annual event are three new stone games – the Pebble Dash, Stepping Stones and Table Top Curling.
"The stone skimming will remain the same, with age categories for open, over 65s, under 16s and under 12s.
"There will be a throwing event for the Under 5s.
"The competition will be judged on distance rather than the number of bounces but the stone must bounce a minimum of three times.
"Competitors can bring their own stones but they must be British and naturally formed. Stones will also be provided on the day," she said.
But more volunteers are need to help the event on July 16 run smoothly.
Mrs Ashton said: "The event involves a lot of hard physical work in the form of preparing the lake, setting up the field, moving copious amounts of stones, fencing off dangerous areas, putting up marquees and shelters - and then dismantling it all at the end.
"Since starting up this wonderful fun day in 2008 we have become somewhat older and need a burst of new energy, strength and enthusiasm.
"Obviously we will also welcome volunteers for less backbreaking duties such as judging, recording, time keeping and general running about."
Anyone wanting to become part of the team can contact Heather Ashton on 01588 638818 or 07792 180577, or visit the website www.stoneskimming.org.uk.
