Forget Ant and Dec, reporters John Edwards and Thom Kennedy from the Bridlington Free Press have started their own series of head-to-head challenges.

Just like the Geordie cheeky chappies on Saturday night TV, the journalists are given a different task to try each week, with the winner getting a point as the scores roll over from week-to-week.

All their exploits are featured in the Free Press and also on the paper’s website:
www.bridlingtontoday.co.uk.

The most recent, and probably most embarrassing, challenge the chaps had to tackle was to write the lyrics to a Christmas song and then sing it in a music studio, working with a local tutor.

Readers were able to listen to their efforts online and take part in an Internet vote to decide whose was the best song.

Editor Nick Procter said: “They are taking the challenges very seriously and are desperate to win each week. The competitive spirit has threatened to boil over a few times.

“The feature has been getting good feedback from readers. It is light-hearted and lifts the doom and gloom of court and crime.

“It is also a great way to encourage our readers to interact with us. As well as being able to listen to their music and take part in online polls, they have the chance to suggest ideas for what John and Thom can do next.

“Another bonus is that a number of the clubs who have already taken part in a challenge with the lads have said the article led to many enquiries from potential new members who were looking for a new hobby.”

So far, John and Thom have tried archery, fencing, model powerboat racing, watercolour painting and even hairdressing on live models.

They have also learnt to play the piano in an hour and their completed ‘symphonies’ were also available on the Free Press website for readers to listen to.

Lined up for the future are flower arranging, martial arts and the chance to make silver wedding rings at a jeweller’s workshop.

The score is currently 4-4, John having won the first four challenges before Thom started a stirring comeback.

All their challenges can be found here: www2.bridlingtontoday.co.uk.