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Bed Race organisers appeal for volunteer litter pickers

Wednesday, 20 May 2026 07:53

Bed Race organisers Knaresborough Lions are appealing for volunteers.

Organisers of this year's Great Knaresborough Bed Race are appealing for volunteers to help with litter picking after the event.

The annual race, organised by the Knaresborough Lions, is due to take place on Saturday 13th June and attracts thousands of spectators each year.

The event sees teams decorate and race specially designed beds through the streets of Knaresborough, before tackling the traditional swim through the River Nidd.

Alongside the race itself, the day also features a parade through the town centre.

And ahead of the weekend, organisers have highlighted the amount of work carried out by volunteers to make it happen.

According to the Lions, volunteers spend around 10 hours on the Friday preparing barriers, signs, Conyngham Hall and the race course, before working approximately 14 hours on race day managing the parade, road closures and event operations.

A further five hours are then spent on Sunday clearing litter, returning equipment and packing everything away.

The group said many of its volunteers are in their 70s and 80s and are now asking the wider community to help with the clean-up operation.

A spokesperson said:

"We’re asking if you could give just 30 minutes back to help the Lions with the clean-up.

"The more people who help, the sooner the Lions can finally get a well-earned rest after another incredible Bed Race weekend."

Volunteers are being asked to meet at Conyngham Hall at 10am on Sunday 14th June.

Organisers said people only need to bring gloves, a bag and “a dollop of Knaresborough spirit”.

Community groups, sports clubs and local residents are all being encouraged to take part, with organisers saying that the more people who help, the sooner volunteers can finish the clean-up after the weekend’s events.

Anyone interested in helping is asked to contact lionbedrace@hotmail.co.uk.

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