When a PR sends details of a promotional “event” at which the public are being encouraged to participate, it is invariably an awful thing with only the most tenuous connection to the product it’s promoting (shivers at the memory of one too many flashmobs). But not in this case. To draw attention to the release of Michael Palin and Terry Jones’ completely wonderful 1970s comedy series Ripping Yarns on DVD, a potentially record breaking, charity Hopathon is being organized. And you can take part. 

In tribute to the 30-mile hop, endured by the pupils of Graybridge School (their motto: “Only in true misery can you find true contentment”) which featured in the first episode of Palin and Jones’s post Python comedy classic, they’re asking for members of the public (you) to help set a Guinness World Record for the largest group 400 metre hop.

 Not only that, Michael Palin and Terry Jones will be on hand to present prizes (though hopefully not the traditional “palfrey”) including Team Graybridge and Team St Anthony's t-shirts, a commemorative certificate and, to the fastest hoppers - £500 to the charities of their choice.

The event takes place at the Hampstead Heath Athletics track, in London on Saturday, March 3.

Participants must be over 18 years of age and in sound physical health (no dysentery or Beriberi).

Full details about registration are available at facebook.com/NetworkDVD by 'LIKING' the hop.

Ripping Yarns - The Complete Series is released on DVD on March 5