AT the age of 73, cutlery king Bert Draycott has developed a top secret new move to help him retain his world title.

For the pensioner has been the undefeated World Champion Spoons Player for the last 30 years and proudly signs his name with the initials WCSP.

A demon on the dessert spoons, he won the inaugural world title when it was held at Fishburn Colliery, County Durham, in 1973.

Bert, who lives in Fishburn, remained unchallenged until last year when the championships were revived at the Trimdon Festival.

The competition was such a success, that festival organisers are to stage it again and are inviting all-comers to challenge the master.

A veteran of the North-East folk circuit, Bert has developed a series of special moves, including the Fishburn Flick and Newcastle Knuckle Knocker, but is keeping his latest under wraps.

He said: "I've worked out another one since last year, but I'm not releasing it to the public yet because I don't want people to see it until I unveil it at the world championships."

Bert reckons he can reign for another 20 years, but festival organisers are not so sure.

Peter Brookes said: "It was a close run thing last year and I'm hoping we'll get a few people to try and knock him off his perch."

The championships will be held on the first Saturday of the festival, September 6, in the Bird in Hand pub, Trimdon Village.

The event has attracted some big names over the years, including Lonnie Donegan and Lindisfarne. Topping the bill this time will be Benny Gallagher of Gallagher and Lyle fame.