Hundreds of naked cyclists take to London's streets to protest against oil dependency
London's nude bikers
6 June 2008
Hundreds of brazen cyclists took to the streets of London today - completely naked - as part of the World Naked Bike Ride.
The brave riders were protesting against oil dependency and car culture as well as celebrating body freedom.
It is the fifth time the event has hit the capital.
Riders assembled in Hyde Park before setting off on a six mile route which took in classic London landmarks including Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and the South Bank.
Many participants hid their modesty with vibrant body paint and bikes were covered in flowers adding to the jovial and upbeat atmosphere despite the rather cool June temperatures.
Liz Marsh, 26, said: "It's really great to see so many people doing this. I thought I'd feel really exposed by actually it's not that bad!"
But student Adam Peck was a little more modest. He said: "I was quite up for going completely naked but suddenly got shy, so I've put my boxers back on.
"It's important to put issues like car culture in the public eye and this is a pretty good way of doing it."
The cyclists drew large crowds in Hyde Park before they set off prompting one rider to comment that "it's very much a spectator sport!"
Organisers estimated around 1,200 people took part - not including the cycling police who escorted the protesters in their peaceful demonstration.
The London event was part of a global World Naked Bike Ride with other cities including Vancouver, Auckland and Seattle all taking part as well as Brighton's popular installment which took place last weekend.
did you miss?
features
News by…
Topics
Football
People
Julia Buckley
Places
Usa
-
Stoke Newington
Character flat:All bills inc/WiFi,cable15 min2City
£180pw -
Morden Hall Park
Nice Double room in flatshare
£105pcm -
Peckham
F/furnished Doble room in lovely clean house share
£100pw
- gallery:
- all
- thelondonpaper
