Timbers were shivered and hearties a-hoyed at the World Walking the Plank Championships on Sunday, which drew record crowds and a host of madcap competitors.

Records were smashed in the number of plankers taking part and the amount raised through entry fees and a generous collection on Queenborough quay, Sheppey.

Chemical analyst “Mad Mike” Young proved he had the winning formula when he scored top marks.

Mike, of Parsonage Chase, Minster, landed a hat trick after scooping top honours in 2002 and 2004, notching 102 points out of a possible 120.

The 57-year-old said: “This was one small step for mankind but a giant leap for plankers. I am over the moon.”

He jumped off the plank with his “pogo of death” after setting fire to his top hat.

For three pages of pictures - see your Sheerness Times Guardian out on Thursday.