Cheese Rolling in Gloucester, England: A Unique Tradition

Learn about the annual cheese-rolling event in the South West England Gloucester region, where participants chase a nine-pound round of Double Gloucester cheese down a hill. Discover the history and rules of this quirky and adrenaline-filled competition.

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Questions and Answers

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What is the main reason why the event was originally used?

To maintain grazing rights on the commons

What is the significance of the Masters of the Ceremony scattering buns, biscuits and sweets at the top of the hill?

To encourage 'the fruits of harvest'

How many downhill races are there in total?

4

What is the maximum number of racers allowed in each race?

<p>14</p> Signup and view all the answers

When does the event take place annually?

<p>Late Spring Bank Holiday Monday</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cheese Rolling Event

  • Annual event held in Spring, located in the South West England Gloucester region.
  • Competitors chase a 9-pound round of Double Gloucester cheese down a hill.

The Hill and Location

  • Takes place on Cooper's Hill, in the parish of Brockworth, Gloucester.
  • Main competitors are locals from the village, but people from around the world participate.

Brief History

  • Estimated to have originated in the 15th century.
  • Two theories on its origins:
    • Used for maintaining grazing rights on commons.
    • Pagan origin, where people threw burning brushwood down the hill to represent the New Year.

Rules and Ceremony

  • Four downhill races: three for men and one for women.
  • Maximum of 14 racers per race, but more can participate.
  • Masters of the Ceremony start the event, scattering buns, biscuits, and sweets at the top of the hill.
  • Shout "One to be ready, two to be steady, three to prepare" before releasing the cheese.
  • First person past the finish line wins the cheese.

Participation and Schedule

  • Held annually on the late Spring Bank Holiday Monday, starting at 12pm.
  • No criteria to enter, no paperwork required; just show up at the top of the hill and register with the organisers.
  • Warning: it's not a sport for the faint-hearted, and participants enter at their own risk.

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