by Sean O'Hare
BEING the sophisticated town that it is, few have ever had to be stretchered out of a Beaconsfield pub.
That, however, is set to change, thanks to the revival of the Beaconsfield Stretcher Race by the town's Round Table.
The event was founded in 1978 by Gordon Kirby to raise funds for the St John's Ambulance and other local charities.
Billed as the world's fastest pub crawl, teams dress up in fancy dress and carry 'casualties' around the Old Town visiting pubs on the way and drinking half a pint at each stop.
It ran successfully for 19 years only to stall in 1997 due to a lack of interest.
This year's stretcher race will be run as part of the Beaconsfield Country Fair which takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, August 27.
The money raised by the stretcher race will go towards the Ian Rennie Hospice at Home and St Mary's Raise the Roof Appeal.
Beaconsfield Round Table chairman Russell West, said: "The stretcher race was traditionally an event that the whole community got behind and it's pleasing that this year's race is being met with a similar level of enthusiasm.
"I'm excited to be behind an event that is gaining momentum daily and at this point almost seems to be organising itself.
"The support of the Country Fair, the police and all the pubs en-route is inspiring.
"There have even been numerous sightings of pub teams carrying out secret training sessions under the cover of darkness in the Old Town!"
In the spirit of the first ever stretcher race, the original course will be kept to as best as possible, while allowing for the various changes in some of the original 'medication' stops.
Prizes will be awarded to the best male and female teams, as well as for the best dressed individuals and team.
There are a limited number of places available and the stretchers are rapidly being snapped up.
Carriers must be a minimum of 18 years and the strecher occupant must be at least 10 years old.
For entries, please contact Russell West on 07881 900402.
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