The third British Bread Golf Open saw record numbers turn out to hit dough balls into the River Thames in aid of an arts charity.

The day involved whacking specially-made bread balls from the back of Woody’s bar, Ram Passage, into a giant floating golf hole, to raise cash for Creative Youth.

Around 120 participants paid a £5 donation towards Creative Youth, who were behind the International Youth Arts Festival, which brought in just over £800 for the charity.

Councillor Barry O’Mahony, decked out in full golfing attire, arrived in confident mood hoping to recapture the form that saw him crowned inaugural bread golf champ two years ago, but it was 13 year old Sam Morgan who stormed into an early lead.

The youngster was leading right up until the last few watery holes when Ian Richardson's impressive pitched shot was good enough to earn him the coveted “green jacket”.

Organiser Robin Hutchinson, the man behind Homage Fromage and Surbiton Ski Sunday, said: “We were not sure this sporting event would catch the public imagination but I think, along with premier league football and giant buckaroo, this is a true success."

Mr Hutchinson jokingly added he did not want to slight Ian’s achievement but said "to steal from a child near Christmas is certainly not within the spirit of the season".