The Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling Assoc. is determined to keep this age old tradition alive and not only visits Cumbrian schools organising tournaments, but here at the Langdale Gala, competitors of all ages can take part in the competition and win prizes.

It is an ancient and well-practised tradition in Cumbria. It bears enough of a resemblance to Scottish Backhold, which is practised just north of the border, for them to be classed under the joint heading North Country style.

The origin of the North Country style of wrestling is a matter of debate, with some describing it as having evolved from Norse wrestling brought over by Viking invaders. Other historians associate it with the Cornish and Gouren styles, indicating that it may have developed out of a longer-standing Celtic tradition and the Fédération International des Luttes Celtique classes Cumberland wrestling as Celtic. However, the Norse shared culture with other Germanic peoples and Cumbrian wrestling has much in common with Icelandic Glima wrestling.