REIGNING All England Open Stone Skimming Championship winner Ron Long retained his title with a spectacular 85-metre throw at Fell Foot Park on Saturday.

A 'remarkable' turnout conquered horrendous conditions at Windermere to fight for the title and support the South Cumbria Rivers Trust.

The aptly-named Long's throw was six metres further than Michael Trout who came second, ahead of Kevin Waltham in third with a 74-metre effort in the senior men's competition.

Winning lady was Becca Powis who reached 34 metres to comfortably beat Anna Adams (28 metres) and Frances Tomlinson (19 metres).

Just four metres separated the best entrants in the 11 to 16 year old category, with Ben Hooper coming out on top after managing 57 metres. Close behind him were Ross Singleton at 55 metres, and James Marsh with 53 metres.

Jack Summer ruled supreme in the under 11's events thanks to his winning distance of 24 metres. Settling for runner up was Jacob Trotman (16 metres) and third was Freddie Tomlinson (15 metres).

The £3 entry fee from each competitor goes to the South Cumbria Rivers Trust to assist their vital conservation work in the South Lakes.