“I haven’t seen crowds like this in Whitby before” – thousands watch return of Greasy Pole

Action from the Greasy Pole competition which returned after ten years. Picture Submitted
Whitby Anchor by Emma Ryan

When Kev and Lindsay Close decided to bring back the Greasy Pole to Whitby Regatta, they weren’t sure what interest there would be.

Now they are already planning on repeating it next year after crowds in the thousands lined the West, Fish and Tate Hill piers, the West Cliff, St Ann’s Staith and even the swing bridge to watch people tackle the greasy pole for the first time in ten years.

With cheers, shouts of encouragement – and some laughter – spectators lapped up the action in the sun-drenched harbour.

Crowds turned out in force for the action from the Greasy Pole.
Picture: Submitted

The winner was John Morrison after a previous competitor grabbed the flag but was dismissed because he crawled on the pole.

Afterwards, Kev told The Anchor: “I was not expecting that at all. Even the swing bridge was full of people. We never even used to get crowds like that years ago for the greasy pole.

“It was definitely a success and we could not have hoped for better. There has been a lot of hype about it and a lot of talking about it. The crowds got a good show.

“It is our event now and we will be doing it again next year”.

There were many attempts at the greasy pole. Picture: Submitted
They were lining up to have a go at the resurrected greasy pole contest at Whitby Regatta. Picture: Submitted
Action from the Greasy Pole competition Picture: Submitted
Attempting the greasy pole competition on Saturday. Picture: Submitted
The Fish Pier was packed as people watched the greasy pole. Picture: Submitted
The greasy pole made for spectacular viewing on Regatta Saturday. Picture: Submitted

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