Olympic beds set to race for charity

Participants are being encouraged to take to the streets with their beds for a fun-filled charity fundraiser this weekend (June 9th). With all proceeds going to the Lions Charity Fund, the wacky event that will see members of the publicc race against each other on themed single or double beds is certainly an interesting way to raise money. The Bed Race will take place in Great Knaresborough and requires teams of six to compete in a swim through the River Nidd after racing along a three-mile route, beds in tow. Organisers set this year's theme as 'Olympic Nations', meaning participants have the opportunity to base their bed décor and their own attire on whichever country is allocated to their team. Suggested categories for inspiration include history, sport and landscape, so there are sure to be some interesting outfits! The Great Knaresborough Bed Race was first set up in 1966, and the volunteer-run event has gone from strength to strength to become one of the North of England's largest community events. President of the Knaresborough Lions Club Phil Oldfield told the York Press (June 7th): “This has been transformed from a relatively small local event to become the massive experience we see today. "It is now the biggest street event in North Yorkshire and the flagship occasion of our Lion’s district, which has more than 50 clubs and nearly 1,000 members."