Haxey Hood 2025: Hundreds join huge scrum for medieval game

The game begins with the ceremonial “fool” delivering a speech while a bonfire is lit behind him, covering him in smoke.

Traditionally the game – which can run for hours and attracts hundreds of spectators and participants – involves pushing the 3ft (1m) hood to one of the four pubs in the two villages.

James Chatwin, who plays the character of the “fool”, said the event resembled a huge rugby scrum.

“It’s not nasty, but it is physical – it’s not for the faint-hearted,” he said.

The best part was the community spirit, with everyone from the local area getting involved.

“It’s the best school reunion you could ever wish for,” he added.

The fool’s speech ends with the chant: “Hoose agen hoose, toon agen toon, if a man meets a man knock ‘im doon, but doan’t ‘ot ‘im,”

Put simply, Mr Chatwin said it meant players should look out for each other and enjoy the day.