Atherstone Ball Game cancelled after steward taken to hospital in critical condition
A ball game that has been played annually for more than 800 years had to be cancelled after one of the stewards fell ill.
The 821st Atherstone Ball Game was abandoned on Shrove Tuesday (25th February) when a long-serving steward required medical treatment.
The event, held annually since the early 12th century dates back to the reign of King John. Hundreds of people grapple for control of a large ball as part of the game - with the winner being whoever has a hold on it after two hours.
Stewards have taken part in recent years to clamp down on any violence.
But this year's competition, which started at 3pm, stopped early after an ambulance was called just before 4pm.
The Ball Game committee decided to abandon the game as police officers, ambulances and an air ambulance attended the scene.
The steward, who was found in a critical condition, was airlifted to hospital after being treated by paramedics.
Warwickshire Police confirmed there were "no suspicious circumstances they are aware of" that led to ending the game early.