ANYONE wanting to avoid the sight of bare bottoms and boobs should take a mental note of the route of this year's Naked Bike Ride.

The York event is now in its third year and coincides with similar naked bike rides across the country and indeed the world.

Conceived as a protest against the world's dependency on oil and the car culture, participants cycle nude to highlight the vulnerability of cyclists on city streets.

But those who want to take part but don't want to show all of their parts are allowed to protect their modesty.

Melissa Evans, one of the organisers, said: "You ride as bare as you dare. Many do ride nude, but if you're shy, shorts, swimwear, crop tops, body paint, sunglasses or masks are all fine. No one will pressure you to take off more than you want to.

"A perfect body is not required either - we come in all shapes and sizes."

People are also encouraged to adorn themselves and their bikes with signs to let bystanders know what they are doing and why.

The event takes place on Saturday, June 7, with cyclists assembling from 4pm in York's Memorial Gardens off Leeman Road, near the railway station.

The pedalling starts at 5pm with a five-mile route around the city before finishing at the Museum Gardens. Those taking part should take a bag with them as there is nowhere to leave belongings.

Organisers are hoping for warm sunshine, but if the heavens look as if they will be opening cyclists are advised to take something warm to wear.