Bare-faced cheek of York's nude cycle riders (VIDEO)

Around 150 riders are expected to take part in the Fifth York World Naked Bike Ride, a one and a half hour jaunt around the city which is aiming to raise awareness of cycling and our reliance on motorised transport.

Going under the slogan 'As Bare As You Dare', organisers say full nudity is not compulsory and that riders may turn up in colourful costumes. Some are expected to wear body paint, many decorate their bikes and others paint slogans on their bodies supporting the cycling lifestyle.

Among the participants on June 19 will be Hugh Dower who is planning to ride naked - apart from his sandals.

"What we've always been impressed with are the cheers we get as we pass by," he said. "There are are few who think we shouldn't be doing duch a thing, but the vast majority of people smile and cheer."

Co-organiser John Cossham said the event aimed to raise awareness of our reliance on oil-based transport.

"Everything is oil and we're going to have to think of ways of reducing our reliance on oil. Cycling is a great way to get around."

Riders will gather in Memorial Gardens between the railway station and the River Ouse from 4 pm and set off from the nearby Esplanade at 5 pm. The ride will last about an hour and a half and take in Petergate, Parliament Street, Cliffords Tower, New Walk, Millennium Bridge, the Knavesmire, the Mount, Micklegate and Coney Street and end as usual in Museum Gardens.

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