Over 200 competitors braved lashing rain and stormy seas to enter the eight annual World Belly Boarding Championships at Chapel Porth on Sunday.

Participants from as far away as the British Virgin Islands were among those who dug out their swimming hats, trunks and wooden boards for the competition.

Started in 2002 by car park attendant Chris Ryan and lifeguard Martyn Ward, the championships pride themselves on being a simple, back-to-basics comp – no wetsuits, no leashes and no swim fins. A bit of wood and a swimsuit is all that was required.

Jack Johns emerged victorious among the competitors this year to become the new world champion.