THE world's oldest sporting event returned to its North Yorkshire roots with a record number of entries.

The Antient Scorton Silver Arrow contest celebrated its 300th competition by attracting 143 entries.

The annual archery competition was held at Scorton, near Richmond, North Yorkshire, and attracted bowmen from Australia, Ireland and Holland.

It was first held in 1673 and archers compete for the Scorton Silver Arrow. The prize is won by the first archer able to hit a three-and-a-half inch black spot at the centre of the target from 100 yards.

This year, Guy Hair, who shoots for St Mary's College, in Hull, won and was named Captain of the Arrow.

Drew Stapleton, 57, of the Company of Scorton Archers who won the competition last year, said: "I'm proud of how it went and we attracted a record number of entries.

"I had an idea that it was going to be well attended.

Last year, Mr Stapleton, who only has 30 per cent sight because of macular degeneration, won the Scorton Silver Arrow in Hull.

The winner organises the next event, which must take place in Yorkshire - and the silver arrow must not leave the county's boundaries.

The challenge was the 15th time that the competition was held in Scorton.