In Dorset, near Bridport, the Dorset Nectar Cider Farm is hosting the World Nettle Eating Championships. Contestants are vying for the title of world champion by eating stinging nettles. The competition requires participants to remove leaves from the stalks before consuming them, with empty stalks being counted at the end. To help alleviate the pain caused by the nettles, participants are provided with cider to wash them down.
One of the reigning champions, Bethan Hodges from Wales, will be defending her title at this year’s event. Last year, she consumed an impressive 60ft of nettles and sustained some lasting injuries on her fingers and tongue as a result. Another returning contestant, Rob Casey, emphasizes the importance of folding up the nettles to avoid stings and dipping them in cider to minimize pain.
The tradition of the World Nettle Eating Championships dates back to the 1980s and was formerly held at a pub in Bridport which has since closed. This year, Ryan Strong has taken over the event at Dorset Nectar Cider Farm in an effort to preserve this unique competition. Last year over 2000ft-worth of nettles were cut into 2ft lengths and measured specifically for the competition. Some participants employ strategies such as pulling off all leaves at once to test their mind-over-matter abilities.
