Competitors will be hoping for a clean strike as the UK’s largest annual conker championships return to the Heath on Sunday.

The free event, now in its 17th year, is officiated by conkermeister Paul Maskell.

Participants will be split into five categories; under-fives, five to seven years, eight to 13 years, 14 to 17 years and 18 years and over.

The winner for each category will win a golden conker and a certificate.

Anybody who wants to take part and battle for the title can register at Parliament Hill Bandstand by 2.30pm. Conkers will be provided.

Karina Dostalova, chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath Management Committee, said: “This great British pastime has been enjoyed for generations and makes for a great family day out in one of London’s finest green spaces.”