FOOD fans tackled a fiery challenge at the second annual charity World Garlic Eating Competition in Bridport.

The event was held at The George Inn in Chideock on Saturday September 13 from 3pm, with all the money raised from the competition going towards local charities.

This year, a total of 21 contestants toughened their tastebuds to try and beat a Guinness World Record of the number of garlic cloves eaten in just one minute.

David Greenman was crowned this year’s garlic champion after eating 33 cloves of garlic in one minute, but narrowly missed out on beating the world record by just three cloves.

Watch the video of David's efforts here:

Nina-Marie Kimber was crowned best female garlic eater after managing a total of 28 cloves and the competition's youngest competitor was 14-year-old Edmund Carrington.

Joint organiser Steve Smith, who is also landlord at The George Inn, said the current world record stands at 36 cloves – but that David could have gained Bridport a British World Record.

He added: “I’ve seen no mention of a British World Record for garlic eating; I’m fairly certain we may have broken a British world record but need to confirm it with Guinness.

“The competition was a huge success and although we missed out on the world record by just three cloves of garlic, everyone who took part did brilliantly.

“It was absolutely fantastic, and this was the first year the competition has been altered for the world record - so was in essence our first attempt at beating it.

“Well done to everyone who took part in the competition and everyone who managed to help us raise money for local charities.”

Local produce was also on sale from the South West Garlic Farm based in North Chideock, which supplied all the garlic for the competition.

Last year’s competition winner, Oliver Farmer from Charmouth, managed 19 cloves in one minute.

Steve added: “Next year, we’re hoping to run the competition the same if not better than this year and help bring a world record back to West Dorset.”

Competition winner David received a trophy and £100 in cash.

For more information visit worldgarliceatingcompetition.co.uk or call Steve Smith at The George Inn on 01297 489419.