World famous Cheese Rolling event to be held at Cooper's Hill

Thousands of people are expected to attend the annual Cheese Rolling race in Brockworth.

Competitors will chase a 3kg roll of double Gloucester.
Author: Rachael WhitePublished 27th May 2024

Competitors from all over the world are heading to Gloucestershire today in a bid to be crowned the cheese rolling champion.

Known as one of the UK's toughest downhill races, competitors will be descending on Brockworth's near vertical Cooper's Hill to chase a 3kg roll of double Gloucester.

The event dates back to the 1800's and traditionally takes place on the second May bank holiday Monday.

Cooper's Hill is a near vertical slope meaning many competitors fail to stay on their feet and end up tumbling down the hill in a desperate attempt to chase the roll of Double Gloucester.

The winner of last year's women's race, Delaney Irving, travelled from Canada for the competition. However, after being knocked unconscious on the way down, said she does not remember winning.

Safety concerns about the event have been raised by the Tewkesbury Borough Safety Advisory Group (SAG), which is made up of various agencies including the emergency services. However, despite concerns, they have no intention of stopping the annual tradition.

The first race- the Men's Downhill Race- is expected to begin today at 12pm. Followed by the Women's Downhill Race. There is also a third uphill race for children to take part.

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