Atherstone Ball Game 2025 set for March 4 amid safety warnings

The 825th Atherstone Ball Game, a traditional Shrove Tuesday event, is set to take place in Warwickshire on March 4, attracting thousands to the town center. Organizers have issued a warning urging participants to avoid trouble and to allow children a chance to kick the ball, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive community spirit. Due to past violent incidents, police will be closely monitoring the event and have stated that the game will be halted if any violence occurs. Roads around the town will be closed from 11am to 6pm to accommodate the festivities, which will begin at 3pm with the official ball toss by this year's starter, Chantelle Chetwynd. The game itself will commence in earnest at 4:30pm, with teams competing for possession of the ball for two hours. This annual event is regarded as a significant cultural highlight for the local community.