The annual 'Football In The River' fixture in Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, saw two mixed teams from Bourton Rovers' men's squads and veterans battle it out in the chilly waters of the River Windrush. The 50-minute game, which kicked off at 2pm, concluded with a 3-3 draw after the first XI secured an injury-time equaliser.
Despite widespread heatwaves and drought declarations across much of the country this summer, the playing surface in the Cotswolds remained in ideal wet condition. Several hundred spectators lined the riverbanks to witness the traditional five-a-side clash, a local custom reportedly active for approximately 100 years.
Referee Neil Teague, who officiated the match dressed as Superman, described it as "a very, very good game – it was a little bit wet out there." He added, "It's a bit of fun and it has been taking place for over 100 years."