Brutal 'no rules football' marks the beginning of Lent

Published 1815 GMT (0215 HKT) February 13, 2013

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First played in the 17th Century between teams from opposite ends of the Derbyshire town, hundreds of participants aim to get a ball into one of two goals that are positioned three miles apart at either end of Ashboune. Getty Images

According to the town's website, the game isn't exclusive to Ashbourne. Many years ago over 50 British towns played the game. However, Ashbourne is one of very few who have continued to play it. Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

The brutal 'no rules football' is played on Shrove Tuesday -- the day before Lent -- and the succeeding Ash Wednesday -- the first day of Lent. Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

The game is played between two informal teams, the 'Up'ards' and the 'Down'ards' -- depending on which side of the town people live. Getty Images

Historical pictures are displayed in the town hall before rival teams the 'Up'ards and Down'ards' battle for the ball in the annual Shrove Tuesday 'no rules' football match. Michael Regan/Getty Images

The leather balls are hand painted by local craftsmen especially for the occasion.
The design is usually related to the dignitary who will be 'turning-up' the ball,
with a different design each year. Its inside is made of cork, enabling it to float if the battle reaches the river. Getty Images

The ball is thrown in before rival teams the 'Up'ards and Down'ards' battle. Michael Regan/Getty Images

The game has no rules, or marked pitch, so the battle can move into the Henmore river. Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

Shops are boarded up before rival teams the 'Up'ards and Down'ards' battle for the ball . Michael Regan/Getty Images

The game has only ever been canceled twice, both times due to a nationwide Foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. Christopher Furlong/Getty Images