The Rotary Club of Abingdon has confirmed that the World PoohSticks Championships event will take place on Sunday, 25 May 2025, at Sandford Lock near Sandford-on-Thames.
This year, the much-loved event welcomed Allica Bank as its main sponsor, supporting the continuation of this uniquely British tradition.
Founded on the banks of the River Thames, the World PoohSticks Championships celebrates the simple joy of dropping sticks into the water and cheering as they race under the bridge – a game made famous by Pooh Bear, Christopher Robin, Tigger and Eeyore in A.A. Milne’s beloved The House at Pooh Corner.
What started as a charming pastime has become a global event, attracting over 200 contestants from more than 15 countries each year to the banks of the River Thames at Sandford Lock, just outside of Oxford. In 2023, Bertie, aged 7, won the title, while the reigning champion from 2024, Bradley, aged 70, proved that PoohSticks is a game for all generations!
Allica Bank has sponsored the event as part of its ‘Here Is Where The Heart Is’ campaign. The bank, which champions established small to medium-sized businesses across the UK, sees its support for the World PoohSticks Championships as a natural extension of its commitment to local communities and celebrating the characterful events that make Britain unique.
Richard Kirby – Event Organiser from the Rotary Club of Abingdon, said: “The World PoohSticks Championships is a piece of Oxfordshire’s history and a great day out for families and competitors of all ages. Without the support of sponsors like Allica Bank, events like ours could potentially disappear, so we are incredibly grateful for their backing.
“This special tradition brings joy to both young and old, and, most importantly, every penny raised goes to Rotary charities, helping those less fortunate both locally and internationally.”
Allica Bank’s local relationship manager for Oxfordshire, Gareth Adams, commented: “Allica is delighted to be supporting the 2025 World PoohSticks Championships this May at Sandford Lock.
“Just like many of the established businesses we support, this event is one-of-a-kind and has been an important part of this community for decades. We’re thrilled to be part of this year’s event and can’t wait to see the sticks hit the water!”
The event will begin at 11.00am, with registration available on the day or in advance. The surplus funds raised will be donated to Rotary charities, continuing the organisation’s proud tradition of supporting good causes.
