Kinetic energy is key to conkering all

A MATHEMATICAL formula is the key to success at the World Conker Championships, the winner revealed yesterday.

Ray Kellock, 64, took the title at the 46th contest for the second time - saying he had perfected the "kinetic energy theory" that brought him success in 2008.

Around 350 adults and 700 juniors took part in the competition yesterday in Northamptonshire.

Self-employed Mr Kellock, from Rushden, Northants, who regained the title after being knocked out in last year's semi-finals, said it was all down to the now-modified formula.

"It's design this time, it was a chance last time but it was design this time.

"It's all about potential energy, according to my son anyway, who's a Batchelor of Engineering.

"He says that it's all about kinetic energy and potential energy. We only had kinetic energy two years ago and now we've got potential energy factored in too.

"It's all about how you hit it and where you hit it.

"We didn't quite perfect it last year, that's why we didn't win."

Wendy Bradford, 45, from Brixworth, Northants, said she was "stunned" to win the Ladies title.

Organisers hope to raise 500,000 for charity by the time the title is contesated for the 50th time in 2014.