Ringwood’s inaugural rib-eating competition at The London Tavern had the most dramatic of finishes - a dead heat.

The large crowd cheered on 13 chompers who gnawed their way through hundreds of pork ribs.

But it was Ryan Morrell and John Heath who came out on top, having skinned 28 ribs each in the 15 minutes available.

Close behind them was one of the pre-competition favourites Jamie Bruce, who was just a few ribs short.

The top three received their entry fee back and a prize, with all indicating a wish to enter again.

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The event was part of the tavern’s music festival weekend, TavFest, which saw top acts perform in the award-winning beer garden.

Landlord Phil Hoyle said: “It was the town’s first rib-eating competition and was a huge success. There was a great deal of interest and places filled up quickly, as did the competitors once it began.

“The chef kept a steady flow of ribs coming from the kitchen, and tactically those who started too quickly tailed off, but those who paced themselves prospered.

“Our excellent beer really came into its own to wash down the rib meat and we plan to make it an annual event.”