A Richard Madeley lookalike competition in Stockport ended with an unexpected winner that left locals completely bewildered. A pug wearing a wig and tuxedo claimed first place, beating 15 human contestants in the quirky community event.
The competition took place at around 11.30pm at Alexandra Park in Stockport, Greater Manchester, after mysterious flyers advertising the contest appeared around the area. The flyers later vanished without trace, adding to the intrigue surrounding the event.
Mystery organiser sparks community buzz
Nicci Owen, who owns a coffee kiosk in the park, witnessed the mysterious flyer campaign firsthand. She said: "No one saw who put them up but, obviously as soon as anyone saw it they were just so excited. But, is it real?"
According to Daily Mail reports, the event was organised by someone identified as 'Mrs Jones' and drew approximately 200 people to the park. The competition attracted 16 official contestants, including people wearing Richard Madeley masks and one couple who came dressed as the famous "Richard and Judy" duo.
Canine victory delights crowd
The winning pug proudly trotted away with an inflatable champagne bottle as the first prize. Daily Mail reports identify the victorious dog as Larry, accompanied by his nine-year-old owner Molly Glover.
The runner-up received a selection of Richard & Judy books as their consolation prize. Daily Mail reports that finalists included local residents Arthur Hassall, Paul Lockitt, and Kate Trevor before the pug secured its unexpected victory.
Global viral trend reaches Britain
The Stockport event reflects a worldwide phenomenon that began with a Timothée Chalamet lookalike competition in New York's Washington Square Park in October 2024. That original contest, organised by YouTuber Anthony Po with a $50 prize, attracted thousands of participants and even the Hollywood star himself appeared.
Social media users expressed delight at the unexpected British twist on the viral trend. One Reddit user who participated called it "a good laugh," while another noted: "The pug came 1st place out of 16 people, no sign of Richard though."
Sources used: "Daily Star", "Daily Mail" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
