Hardy daredevils have been throwing themselves downhill as Gloucestershire's renowned Cheese Rolling race rolled into action - only not for the faint-hearted.
Eager participants marked this May Bank Holiday Monday by hurtling down Cooper's Hill, at Brockworth near Gloucester, as part of a longstanding national tradition.
The event challenges people to pursue a 3kg Double Gloucester cheese rolling down the steep 200 yard hill, though has also prompted safety warnings in recent years.
Hundreds of people have been gathering at Cooper's Hill to watch the occasion that is thought to have its roots in a pagan festival celebrating the return of spring.
Competitors chase the cheese down the 180m-high hill, with many tripping and tumbling on their way - only to pick themselves up and resume the pursuit.
