THE organiser of an arm wrestling championship attracting competitors from across Europe insists he is not going over the top by saying this year's event will be the biggest and best yet.

Farm Wars will be held at Hope View Sensory Farm in Astley on Saturday, September 9, and will see around 30 arm wrestlers from as far afield as Bulgaria, Poland, Latvia and Romania square up in a range of weight categories.

There will also be numerous games and stalls for all the family to enjoy at the annual event, as well as a scarecrow festival with a fancy dress competition, a funfair and a custom-made bike show.

All the proceeds will go to the farm on Marsland Green Lane which offers support for people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Stan Dickenson, 58, of Kenwood Avenue, Leigh, who organises the arm wrestling championship on behalf of the Leigh Pulling Power club, said: “When we started the event a couple of years ago it went viral, and it has got bigger and bigger since then.

“There will be around 40 matches in different weight classes taking place on the day, with wrestlers from Bulgaria, Poland, Latvia and Romania.

“There will also be quite a lot of things for people to do to cater for families.”

Stan has run the club for 15 years, training three world and seven national champions in that time.

Agy Gorzynska, one of the world champions and a current Leigh Pulling Power member, will be in attendance.

Former national champion Paul Maiden will be the master of ceremonies on the day.

Entry for the event is free, though there is a £5 charge for the bike show.

For more information about Farm Wars call Stan on 07990 854745 or Keith on 07786 712034.