Beath in Hods?

Keswick show day. This is another of those wonderful local agricultural shows rooted in the local community. Unlike many of the bigger shows they do not feel the need to lay on spectacular events. Everything is based round the local community and agricultural activity.

As well as the trade stands there were cattle,sheep,horses,beagles terrier racing, and Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling. The shot shows two of the under 12s just starting a bout. Unfortunately only one is dressed in the traditional white leggings vest and black embroidered shorts. I suppose it is better that they take part and get involved rather than splashing out on "uniform" which they will soon grow out of.

Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling is similar to the Scottish Backhold wrestling and can be grouped as North Country style. It is also practiced in other parts of the world with one of the adult competitors being from Iceland. As you can see from the crowd round the ring it is very popular what you don't know is that the bouts were 40 minutes late in starting so many of them had been standing patiently waiting for over an hour.

What does "Beath in hods mean!? Oh I suppose I had better translate in my youth that was what the Umpire said as he checked both contestants were in holds. You start with your chin on you opponents back and your right arm under their left over their right and your fingers linked. To win you put your opponent on the ground by "hipes" (lifting throws) Buttocks (twisting throws) and trips. If your opponent looses their grip it also counts to you and the win is best of three falls.