Wacky Nation: 50 Unbelievable Days Out at Britain’s Craziest Contests

From Worm Charming to Bog Snorkelling, Nettle Eating to Shin Kicking, there’s a great British tradition of holding very strange contests in which getting filthy, feeling sick, risking life and limb and above all, looking ridiculous are not mere side-effects, but positively celebrated. Welcome to the Wacky Nation.

James Bamber and Sally Raynes, creators of wackynation.com, present 50 of the oddest contests, races and traditions you’d never imagined existed. Think you’ve got what it takes to become the World Coal Carrying Champion, or maybe the Greatest Liar? Perhaps your forte lies in Gurning? Look no further. With ratings for Spectator Fun, Pain Factor and Wackiness, there’s a strong get-involved-if-you-dare streak, backed up by the intrepid authors’ own experiences (with the scars to prove it) and tips from winners. Each entry will astound and amuse, enticing you to become a world champion or simply a laughing stock. With Wacky Nation, you’ve no excuse for a dull weekend ever again.