The World Conker Championships is investigating cheating allegations after the men’s winner, David Jakins, was found to have a steel chestnut in his pocket. St John Burkett, a spokesperson for the championships, said he didn't believe Jakins had cheated but added that the claims were being investigated. Burkett elaborated on further qualms that had been raised, including the fact that Jakins had been stringing the conkers in advance of the competition, but he confirmed that cheating would have been very difficult, with contestants drawing conkers blind and being watched intensely by judges

• Cheating alleged after men’s world conker champion found with steel chestnut