VISITORS and residents in Wellington will be able to give it some welly at the launch of the World Wellington Boot Throwing Championships.

The competition will be held at Wellington Playing Field on September 12 with entrants competing for the furthest distance.

Wellington Mayor Cllr Peter Critchard and Mayor of Taunton Deane, Cllr Bob Bowrah, will be throwing the first wellies to get the show on the road.

Cllr Bowrah said: “It’s a great idea to have a fun event like this to promote Wellington – I am looking forward to having a go.”

The championship is the brainchild of Wellington Chamber of Trade and Commerce, which is determined to put the town on the map to boost the local economy under the banner of the Wellington Experience.

Chamber chairman Terry Sanford said: “We wanted to put on a fun event for Wellington to encourage people to come and enjoy themselves and at the same time take in some of the great shops, cafes, restaurants, and businesses Wellington has to offer.

“We have been overwhelmed by the generous support from the local shops and businesses and I look forward to seeing as many people as possible come along and throw a Wellington or two.”

Rubber boot makers Dunlop are providing wellies for the event from 10am-3pm.

There are classes to suit all ages and abilities including wheelchair and team events for men and women.

Cups and medals will be awarded and there will be shields for the man and woman who achieve the longest throw.