A New Chapter in the Uppies and Downies Tradition
A young roofer from Distington has made history by becoming the first hailer of the 2026 Uppies and Downies series, marking a significant moment in this long-standing traditional no rules ball game. Andy Joe Hunter, 19, took on the role during the Good Friday game, which is part of the annual Easter event that has captivated the people of Workington for generations.
Andy, who has been involved in the game for a few years, described this year as his “first proper year” playing. He said, “I have floated about for a few years and that, this year was my first proper go at the no rules ball game, and it turned out right.” His experience was nothing short of surreal, with the sheer number of spectators leaving him in awe.
“It was unreal, the amount of people, it is just a surreal feeling, you don’t know what to do with yourself, there is just that much shock and surprise, it’s mental,” he added. Andy expressed his surprise at being chosen, saying, “And unexpected that it was me, out of all them people I have got it, its mental.”
The game began with a scrum at the gates of Workington Hall, where Andy found himself in the bottom fighting for the ball. “It just sort of fell to me,” he said. “I put it up my top and got it under my jumper, waited for a gap and just ran.”
The Game and Its Significance
The Uppies and Downies tradition involves two groups: those from the upper part of town (Uppies) trying to take a specially-made ball to Workington Hall, while those from the lower part (Downies) attempt to get it to the harbour. The game is played over three matches on Good Friday, the following Tuesday, and Saturday, drawing large crowds each time.
The scrum making its way up into town under the Ladies Walk bridge was a sight to behold, with fans gathering to witness the action. The game started in the beck, where the initial scrum took place, capturing the attention of onlookers.
Looking Ahead
Andy plans to watch tonight’s game, which will be held at Cloffocks car park at 6:30pm. He expressed his excitement, saying, “All is still to play for with the Downies hoping to make it even ahead of Saturday’s game.”
Elvin Jarvis, a Uppie, shared his enthusiasm for the return of the game, predicting a 3-0 win for the Uppies this year. He said, “It’s just like Christmas, we look forward to it all year, we have seen people we haven’t seen for 12 months, everybody is in good spirits. I’ve turned down a 21st birthday to come here tonight, I’ve turned down holidays in the past.”
Charity and Community
In addition to the game, the Uppies and Downies Charity Committee will host a charity night at the Workington Royal British Legion on Saturday, April 18, starting at 6:30pm. Tickets are priced at £5, with ball hailers and under 16s admitted for free. All proceeds will go to support Hospice at Home West Cumbria and The Henderson Suite at West Cumberland Hospital.
This event not only highlights the community spirit surrounding the Uppies and Downies tradition but also underscores the importance of giving back. As the game continues to bring people together, it remains a cherished part of Workington’s cultural heritage.
