World's Biggest Liar Competition

The Wasdale Valley in Cumbria boasts England's deepest lake (Wastwater), highest mountain (Scafell Pike), smallest church (Wasdale Head Church), and the official World's Biggest Liar Competition, arranged by Copeland Borough Council and held at the Bridge Inn.

This unusual distinction was first conferred on the area through the efforts of a Victorian publican - one Will Ritson, who apparently owned a foxhound/golden eagle crossbreed which could leap over even the tallest dry stone walls. So, since the 1970s, the good people of Wasdale have honoured his memory by holding a lying competition.

Entrants are allowed a minimum of two minutes and a maximum of five to demonstrate their economy with the actualité. The use of Cumbrian dialect is permitted, although mechanical aids are not allowed and overseas competitors have to provide their own interpreters if necessary. Politicians and members of the legal profession are barred from entry.

Previous winners' stories include a geological account of the formation of the Lake District by giant moles, the fish-farming of mermaids, and an account of an action-packed holiday with the Pope.

The winner of the competition "may be publicly billed, advertised or referred to as The Biggest Liar in the World for as long as he or she holds the title". Entry forms are available from the Whitehaven Civic Hall.

Related Information

Website: Copeland Borough Council Website