It’s a game played by children for more than 100 years and its enduring popularity was proved when hundreds descended onto Hampstead Heath to challenge for the title of conker champion.

Adults, teenagers and tots all took part in the Heath’s annual conker contest outside the Parliament Hill cafe, the main draw for crowds at the Hampstead Heath Heritage Festival on Sunday (October 5).

Finalists Denise Triantafyllou and Laurent John fiercely battled to win senior conker champion, with Mr John triumphing on the day.

Welly wanging and bee-keeping were also among the old-fashioned activities available at the festival.

Paul Maskell, City of London Corporation leisure and events manager said: “It’s a great family day out that has become a real fixture on the Hampstead scene.