Seven time world champion liar, John ‘Johnny Liar’ Graham (70) has successfully defended his title at the Jennings World’s Biggest Liar Competition 2008.

The contest took place at the Bridge Inn, Santon Bridge, Cumbria and attracted fourteen entrants from as far as Istanbul who all took to the stage to tell the biggest whopper they possibly could in five minutes.

Local farmer, Johnny managed to overcome his opposition with his tall tale of a journey that saw him ride the depths of the ocean on his horse, Daisy and fly back by utilising a giant Skate.

“I was chuffed to bits to be crowned champ again,” said Johnny. “It was a great turn out on the night with some stiff competition. I’ll certainly be back next year, as long as I keep winning, I’ll keep turning up.”

The judging panel, which included the Lord Mayor of Copeland, Cllr Keith Hitchen were impressed with Johnny’s exaggerated anecdote saying it was his best performance to date.

Johnny received the prestigious trophy from organisers Copeland Borough Council and Jennings, the Lake District brewer.

Jennings Brand Manager, Gaynor Green said: “Johnny’s charm, charisma and razor-sharp wit won him his seventh title. He really captured the imagination of the audience and thoroughly deserves this year’s trophy.”

The contest is held in memory of a famous 19th century landlord, Will Ritson (1808-1890) who was famed for entertaining guests in his Cumbrian pub with his far-fetched stories.

Other tales on the night included stories about aliens replacing all the trees in Cumbria with fakes and a man trying to catch fog for his grandfather’s fog horn.

John ‘Johnny Liar’ Graham (1st) – Mike ‘Monkey Liar’ Naylor (2nd) – Glen Boylon (3rd).