Haynes said about 600 people attended from across the country and abroad, including France, Germany, Poland, the US and Brazil, and it was the busiest event since it started again in 2023 after being paused by the Covid pandemic.
“It’s just bonkers every year,” he said.
Funds from the event go to the local community and St Andrew’s Church.
“Nothing sensible has come from it whatsoever, but the snail trainers take it very seriously,” he said.
“They use lots of different techniques, from giving them cucumber to stay hydrated to also keeping them in the dark, so they are ready to go off and find some darkness.
“A few people have tried to entice the snails with cucumber, but we have to reprimand them for doing that.
“It’s just all very good natured and good fun.”
The eventual winner was Sam Pemberton with Snailor Swift, who slithered 13.5in (34cm) over the finish line – at the speedy time of three minutes and 13 seconds.
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