Fools line up for Muncaster Castle festival

Potential jesters from as far afield as Australia are showing off their wares in West Cumbria.

Muncaster Castle, home to the original Tom Fool, is hosting a tournament to find its "official fool".

The event, compered by the current title holder, Will Tease, culminates with the appointment on Thursday.

Included in the line up are a jester who combines silly tricks with stilt walking, a comedy escape artist, and Australian strong woman Betty Brawn.

The Fool of Muncaster receives a salary in beers, and is sent a crate of Jennings Cumberland Ale every month for a year.

There are also a number of official engagements undertaken at the 800-year-old castle.

Peter Frost-Pennington, whose family live there, said: "All the competitors are unique so it should be a fun contest for everyone.