The word 'dumpling' was coined in Norfolk in the 17th century, so it seems fitting that a cooking contest is held here.

The World Dumpling Championship returns to Norwich for its fifth year on Saturday, December 7 2024.

It will take place at Mitre Coffee in Earlham Road from 10am to 12noon and it is free to take part or spectate.

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All types of dumplings are welcome - from Norfolk Swimmers to Nepalese Momos.

Children can also take part if they are accompanied by an adultChildren can also take part if they are accompanied by an adult (Image: Nick Butcher)

The 2024 theme is roots and shoots, with entrants encouraged to use earthy ingredients like parsnip, celeriac and onion.

Children can cook if they are accompanied by an adult.

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Eve Stebbing, the event founder, said: "Norfolk Swimmers were supposed to be made with only flour and water and were the artful work of the farmer's wife.

"If done right, they would pop to the top of the pot and swim.

"If things went wrong, however, they would sink and turn into sticky goo at the bottom of the stew."

Get an entry form by emailing info@spinofftheatre.co.uk