It's almost that time of year again, folks.
That's right - time to strip off, paint your body, and jump on a bicycle. What do you mean, you don't know what I'm talking about? It's the
London World Naked Bike Ride, of course!
This is the eighth time that the streets of London will be filled with bikers in their birthdays suits, in what could be described as a "jolly protest", designed to bring attention to the world's dependency on oil, as well as our ever-growing car culture.
The event is being organised with help from
Team Green Britain Bike Week, a group that encourages people to get on their bikes and have fun (clothes or no clothes!).
Bringing a whole new meaning to the idea of "feeling the wind in your hair", the London World Naked Bike Ride has seen a good turnout over the years. Last year, around a thousand participants bared their bodies on bicycles in an enjoyable day out for everyone involved.
The event's organisers say that while it's publicised as being a naked event, it
is OK to turn up with a few things on. The idea is to challenge yourself - take off as much as you can! It's not many
people who can say they went sightseeing around London in the buff (though you may get some strange looks if you do say such a thing....).
While many take part looking as if they've just stepped out of the shower, others like to express their creative side by covering their body with colourful designs and messages. It's entirely up to you.
The event takes place on 11th June. The meeting point is in the south-east corner of Hyde Park, just north of the Achilles Statue, and is scheduled for 3pm (for a 3.30pm start).
The precise route can be found
here, and will also finish in Hyde Park.
Covering a distance of about 10 miles (mostly flat), the ride will take in some famous London sightseeing spots. That should have the tourists' heads turning!
If the weather forecast is for a scorcher, be sure to rub in a bit of sun cream to avoid having your vital bits burnt to a crisp. If rain is expected, the event will still take place.
You don't
have to be on a bike either. Roller-skaters and skateboarders are also welcome.
If you have any questions about the event, you'll find an excellent FAQ page right
here.
Oh, and the organisers also state that you should be sure to arrive and leave the event fully clothed. It's not Ride the Tube Naked Day (yet).
