ONE HUNDRED people will bare all this week in a cheeky attempt to raise awareness of cycling safety.

For the seventh time, a horde of cyclists wearing nothing but their safety helmets will hit the streets of Southampton on Friday as part of the annual naked cycle ride.

Organisers say the event will raise awareness of cycle culture and safety and protest against the world’s dependency on oil.

Last year’s event attracted about 150 riders, who rode wearing nothing but their birthday suits on a route starting at Highfield Road and including Portswood, the city centre parks, Oxford Street, Bargate and London Road.

Organisers hope just as many people will turn up to this year’s event, which will take the same route.

Rob Jordan, who is a member of the Southampton Cycling Campaign, said: “It may sound a bit dry but it’s a really good fun, out-of-the-ordinary event.

“We believe cycling is a great way to get around, it’s good for the environment and keeps cars off the road and counters the damaging effects of the oil industry.

“But at the same time it’s encouraging people to ride their bikes and look for improved conditions for cyclists.”

Last year’s ride was ridden in memory of Southampton Cycling Campaign member and former university lecturer Mark Brummell, who was killed in an accident in the New Forest while cycling.

Mr Jordan added: “There are in the region of 100 cyclists killed on the roads every year.”

p The riders will meet at 6pm on Friday at Highfield Road opposite the junction with Omdurman Road.