Clique charity dreams up a real knock-out idea

IT'S A Knock-Out is coming to Barnard Castle for the first of what organisers hope will be an annual fun day which raises bucket loads of cash.

Based on the TV show watched by millions from 1966 to 1982, 16 teams representing businesses, sports clubs, pubs and other organisations in the town have signed up for the event.
It will follow the same format as the show, with plenty of water, greasy poles and rolling logs to trip competitors up.
The event has been organised by The Clique, the Barnard Castle-based charity which supports local good causes, societies and sports clubs. It will take place on Saturday, July 22, on the rugby pitches at the upper Demesnes.
The It’s A Knock-Out fun starts at noon and is the centrepiece of an afternoon and early evening of fun-packed events.
The Clique's Geoff Thwaites said: “It’s planned as a massive family fun day.
“In addition to It’s Knock-Out, there will be bouncy castles, food, a bar and ice cream. Then between 5pm and 8pm there will be two local bands performing.” Mr Thwaites said it was hoped the majority of the town would be involved in the day in one way or another.
“It is the first It’s A Knock-Out in Barnard Castle for a long time and this is the first one we have done. We hope to make it an annual event,” he added. “It’s going to be a massive family day. People can bring chairs and rugs and have their own picnic if they want to.”
Among those entering a team will be the fire service, which will also be on standby as first aiders as well as offering youngsters a look in an appliance. Wrist bands will be issued on entry to the Demesnes so people can come and go throughout the day.
“Hopefully, people will stay and support the bands,” added Mr Thwaites.
He said that while “praying for sunshine” marquees would be erected in the event of a bad weather forecast.
Admission for spectators and visitors to It’s A Knock-Out will be £3 for adults and £1 for the U16s. The event is the latest money spinner The Clique has dreamt up.
During the Meet weekend, members took part in a sponsored bed push from Mickleton to the County Bridge before taking part in the unofficial boat race.
In June, they will take part in a three-peak challenge in the Lake District and at Christmas, they will take the plunge in the annual River Tees Boxing Day dip.
For more details, go to the-clique.org.uk