Thousands turn up for quirky Yorkshire bed race

THOUSANDS of spectators turned out to cheer on runners in one of the most unusual Yorkshire races.
By The Newsroom
Published 16th Jun 2014, 06:00 BST
The Knaresborough Bed Parade makes its way through the streets of the townThe Knaresborough Bed Parade makes its way through the streets of the town
The Knaresborough Bed Parade makes its way through the streets of the town

Over 25,000 people watched teams tackle the 49th annual Great Knaresborough Bed Race on Saturday.

The gruelling 2.4-mile race sees fundraisers don fancy dress and carry a decorated bed round the course, which includes a daring swim across the River Nidd.

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This year the 90 teams took on the theme of children’s television and film characters.

Organiser Nigel Perry, from the Knaresborough Lions Club, said: “The overall standard of decoration and fancy dress was the best ever. It was phenomenal.

“It is an incredible feat and an extremely difficult race.

“Everyone takes it seriously and they all train for it.

“It has even spawned bed races around the world, including Germany and America.”

Harrogate Harriers crossed the line in first place for the second year running, with a time of 12 minutes and 51 seconds.

The 1st Scriven Scouts scooped the award for the best dressed bed, taking inspiration from the film, ‘Despicable Me’.

Organisers hope to raise £100,000 for local charities from the event.

Related topics:YorkshireOrganisersGermany