Royal Shrovetide football match takes place in Ashbourne

In Ashbourne, England, the spirited annual tradition of the Royal Shrovetide Football Match kicked off with fervor on Tuesday

A spirited annual tradition, the Royal Shrovetide Football Match, took place in the quaint town of Ashbourne, England on Tuesday.

Captured through the lens of photographer Paul Ellis, this centuries-old spectacle brings the community together in a fierce display of athleticism and camaraderie.

The history of Royal Shrovetide Football is rich and deeply intertwined with the fabric of Ashbourne. During this annual event, the town becomes a battlefield, and the ancient game serves as a testament to the community’s enduring spirit.

Fueled by local pride, participants engage in a spirited contest where strategy and brute force collide. The lack of strict regulations allows for a raw, unfiltered display of athleticism, making the match a unique spectacle in sports.

The small brook, which divides the town into two factions, adds an element of geographical identity to the competition. Birthside allegiance creates a sense of belonging, turning the match into a familial affair where neighbors, friends, and relatives find themselves on opposite sides of the battlefield.

Source: AFP

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