Lancaster students celebrated victory in the annual Roses varsity tournament against rivals York University to retain the Carter-James Trophy.
Lancaster’s triumph by 241.5 points to 120.5 means they have won the last five Roses tournaments – the longest winning streak in the history of the competition, which has been running between the two universities since 1965.
Roses is Europe’s largest inter-university sporting tournament and at this year’s event – held at York University – there were 144 competition fixtures between students representing the two sides.
Roses began as a friendly suggestion by the vice chancellor of York University for a rowing race between their two institutions. Students seized upon this and added in table tennis, a relay race and a tug-of-war to that first event. Since then the event has grown beyond recognition with hundreds of competitors involved in a huge array of challenges.
Matches are contested in a wide range of individual and group games, in sports and disciplines including football, rugby, netball, darts, basketball, volleyball, futsal, badminton, cheerleading, e-sports, American football, hockey, frisbee, dance, lacrosse, handball, swimming, Pokemon, fencing, water polo, trampolining, table tennis, chess, korfball, tennis, cricket, canoe polo, rowing and climbing.
The competition paused for two years during Covid and since then Lancaster have dominated, culminating in victory on Sunday afternoon.
The two sides have been closely matched over the years, with York claiming victory 28 times and Lancaster 31. However, this latest win continues the longest winning run in Roses history. Lancaster did manage an unbeaten run from 1972-77, but there was one draw in the middle of it.


Carnforth mum fulfills lifelong dream to publish book she wrote for her own children
New fund opens to support festivals and creative projects in Lancaster district
Morecambe man jailed for possessing thousands of indecent images on mobile
Filming set to start on new series of Morecambe-based TV drama The Bay
TV family's firm becomes official pie suppliers to Morecambe Football Club
Morecambe MP calls on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to step down
Lancaster hospital bosses take extra measures to cope with pressures on services
Future of Lancaster restaurant uncertain as owners announce closure plans
New taxi booking office gets green light to open in Morecambe
Up to 90 new homes near Bay Gateway get thumbs up from council
Carnforth woman tells of weight loss journey ahead of new Morecambe slimming group launch
Park and Ride bus services to Lancaster city centre to reduce
WATCH and LISTEN: Walking with sheep as mayor revives ancient tradition at Lancaster farm
Lancaster University professor is new President of the Royal Astronomical Society
Friends from Morecambe to take on Ultra Marathon for brave toddler
Firefighters and swim centre team give key water safety message on Morecambe school visit
Police probe after stolen motorbike being ridden dangerously found in Morecambe
Man arrested in Lancaster after bridge jump hoax call
Local hospice wins national award for Will donation campaign
Cash boost for babies and families at Royal Lancaster Infirmary after fundraising at local golf club

