The East Anglian Film Archive, the first and largest Regional Film Archive in England, was established in 1976. Since 1984, EAFA has been owned and operated by the University of East Anglia, Norwich (UEA), to support research and work to preserve our moving image heritage. More than 250 hours are freely available online as examples of the wide range of film which attracts interest the world over.
This film is part of Free
The First National Dyke Jumping Championships
What is the secret to a successful dyke-jump? Apparently it’s all in the push-off! This daft Fenland sport, looks like a whole lot of fun.
Overview
From the collection of:
In 1980, in addition to the pleasant walks, picnics, and bird watching, Ferry Meadows Country Park becomes home to the first National Dyke Jumping Championships. The Fenland sport, which Guy Michelmore describes as 'just plain daft', attracts a swathe of competitors, who attempt to pole-vault across a five metre narrow waterway. All get a soaking, plunging into the cold and muddy water, but that’s all part of the fun - with whoops, cheers, and a few groans from the crowds.
True to news broadcasting tradition, a have-a-go reporter (Anglia TV's Guy Michelmore) gets stuck in and takes a turn over the water. Dave “Boy” Green, former British boxing champion, known as the “Fen Tiger” is guest of honour and opens the championships. There are also interviews with the winner Chris Douse, and Martin Armstrong, organiser.