WIZARDS of the pinball world gathered in Salisbury for an international competition.

The fourth Festive Pinball Gathering was held at Special When Lit Pinball Club at the Churchfields Industrial Estate.

A record number of enthusiasts turned out for the contest, including all five British players currently in the top 100 in the world rankings. Among them was club owner Peter Blakemore, who is ranked 72nd.

It was the third highest entry for pinball competitions in the UK during 2013, and 22 machines were in play.

There were three events with trophies and world ranking points to be won - a league meet, a Classics Competition featuring early machines from 1980 to 1990 and the main competition. Once play got under way entrants found that the competition was fierce but friendly with some big scores. Mr Blakemore said: “In recent years there has been a renewed interest in playing pinball machines, both old and new. People are discovering pinball arcade games on their computers and Xboxes and want to try out the real thing. They discover that there is a social side to playing pinball and it appeals to all ages.”

The main competition was won by popular Dutch player, Ad Jonker who is currently ranked 10th in the Netherlands. Craig Pullen was the winner of the Classics competition, with Mr Blakemore second. Martin Ayub was top of the league.

Anyone interested in Special When Lit, which has recently moved into Unit 5 on Loyal Trade Business Park, Stephenson Road can visit specialwhenlit.co.uk for opening times.