What is the Cooper's Hill cheese rolling?
Cooper's Hill cheese rolling is an annual event in Gloucestershire where competitors chase a large round of Double Gloucester cheese down an extremely steep hill. The first person to cross the finish line wins the cheese.
The event takes place on the Spring Bank Holiday at the end of May near the village of Brockworth. It has been held for centuries, with records dating back to at least the early 1800s.
The cheese, weighing about three to four kilograms, is released from the top of the hill, followed by the racers a second later. The cheese can reach speeds of up to about 70 miles per hour.
Dangers and fame
Cooper's Hill is so steep and uneven that most competitors tumble and roll down. Injuries such as sprains and broken bones are common, and first aid teams wait at the bottom.
The event was officially canceled in 2010 because of safety concerns about crowds, but it has continued unofficially, organized by local people.
The race has attracted international attention, with competitors from around the world. Some winners have won multiple times.
The cheese is made by local cheesemakers. The event is one of England's most famous eccentric traditions.