3:16pm Thursday 22nd May 2008
By Steve Mather
TWO television comedians are expected to try their hand at some ancient sporting events by taking part in the annual Olimpick Games next week.
Rory McGrath and Paddy McGuinness will be in Chipping Campden at the Robert Dover's Games next Friday (30) as they film a new programme to taking a closer look at some of the lesser-known sports in Britain today.
Rory McGrath is well known for his time on the sporting panel show They Think Its All Over and Paddy McGuinness is now a successful stand-up comedian after making his name in Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights.
Clive Thompson, vice chairman of the Robert Dover's Games Society said: "A production team has already been here to prepare for filming the new programme for Channel Five.
"Competitors in the sporting events are likely to include Rory McGrath and Paddy McGuinness so we should have an even better mix than usual of fun and games."
This year's games are expected to attract more than 5,000 people and will have a Chinese influence to recognise the Olympic Games in Beijing in August. Traditional dances and kung-fu displays will added to the programme alongside the more established events such as shinkicking.
Mr Thompson added: "There will be some extra attractions on Dover's Hill this year. In acknowledgment of the other' games taking place in Beijing in August, we shall have a lion dance and other performances by children from Telford Chinese School."
The Olimpicks' was part of the London's bid for the 2012 games as the application to the International Olympic Committee referred to it as the first stirrings of Britain's Olympic beginnings.' As well as being the year of the London Olympics, 2012 is also the 400th anniversary of the Dover's Games and a week of celebrations will mark the occasion.
© Copyright 2001-2010 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.cotswoldjournal.co.uk