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Revision as of 14:22, 27 July 2005 by 81.158.208.131 (talk) (Uppies & Downies)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)Workington once celebrated its own version of 'Easter Football'.
The somewhat questionable glories of Workington Easter football play have passed away, partly in consequence of the occupation of a portion of the playing ground by railways and works, and not less because of a change of feeling. How long these Easter Tuesday matches between "Uppies" and "Downeys" have gone on no man can tell. In the 19th century it was reported in the Pacquet that the game in 1849 "was played with all the vigour of former days, from times beyond 'the memory of the oldest inhabitant.'" The goals are about a mile apart, one being a capstan at the harbour, and the other the park wall of Workingham (?? Workington) Hall. There are no rules except those suggested by cunning and skill, while brute force is of the greatest importance. If the ball is "haled" over the park wall a sovereign is given by the owner of the estate to the winners, and of course it is spent in liquor. The players sometimes number hundreds, and thousands of people attend as spectators.
Workington still holds annual Uppies and Downies matches every Easter and all though not as popular as they once were, they still attract a fair-sized crowd. The Downies, traditionally from the Marsh & Quay area of the town which no longer exists, have won every series (of three games) since 1999. This year's games raised more than £7,000 for a children's respite home in nearby St Bees.