Thousands of spectators gathered to watch competitors tumble down Coopers Hill in pursuit of a round Double Gloucester cheese during the annual cheese-rolling event near the village of Brockworth in Gloucestershire. With a disputed history dating back to at least the 1800s, the annual Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling involves competitors chasing an eight pound Double Gloucester cheese down a steep hill.

landing
One competitor lands on another as they tumble down Coopers Hill in pursuit of a round Double Gloucester cheese during the annual cheese-rolling event near Brockworth, Gloucestershire AFP

Several runners were injured; one man broke his wrist, while another had a broken collarbone.

The official event was banned in 2009 due to safety concerns, but enthusuasts have continued to stage unofficial races every year on the bank holiday at the end of May.

In an attempt to make the race safer, revellers had to chase a foam imitation cheese last year, but this year the real thing was back on the menu.

Josh Shepherd, the winner of the first race, told the BBC he was "really happy" but "doesn't really like cheese".

cheese rolling
Competitors tumble down Coopers Hill in pursuit of a round Double Gloucester cheese AFP
cheese rolling
AFP
head over heels
A competitor tumbles head over heels down Coopers Hill during the annual cheese rolling near the village of Brockworth, Gloucestershire AFP
legs akimbo
A runner falls while chasing a cheese down Coopers Hill AFP
tumbling
AFP
injured
A dazed competitor receives help after tumbling down Coopers Hill AFP
winner
Ryan Fairley from England celebrates after winning one of the races AFP
winner
Josh Shepherd from England celebrates after winning a race AFP
pose
A group of competitors celebrate after taking part in the annual cheese rolling event AFP