The Devonshire Wrestling Society celebrates National Inclusion Week from September 14-20, 2026, emphasizing the historical openness of Westcountry wrestling. Notable figures, like blind wrestler William Wreford, exemplify the sport’s inclusivity. The Society upholds a commitment to diversity, welcoming all participants regardless of background, affirming that inclusion has long been an integral aspect of their tradition.
The Devon and Cornwall Wrestling Society was a significant sporting organisation that was founded around 1817 (as reported by Falmouth Packet and Cornish Herald, Sat, May 17, 1845, Page 8), and operated through to the 1870s, primarily centred on London venues. The Society represented the institutionalisation of Westcountry Wrestling traditions within the commercial sporting landscape […]
Featured image: The Wrestling ring ready for competition In an age when digital activities tend to be more popular than physical ones, it’s becoming more important to one’s mental and physical health to take part in activities in the real-world. A common phrase is the need to get some grass between the toes, figuratively meaning […]
Featured image: A painting of the Polkinghorne-Cann match on 26th October 1826. In the early to mid-19th century, Devonshire wrestling emerged as one of England’s most prestigious combat sports, characterised by its unique style, substantial prize purses, and legendary champions. The sport’s golden age, roughly spanning from 1800 to 1830, saw wrestling matches drawing tens […]