Inspired by Juan Mann's classic FREE HUGS video
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3x_RRJdd4), Guinness World Records is looking to establish a new world record for the Most Couples Hugging in One Minute. The aim is to attempt the record on Guinness World Records Day 2009, which takes place on 12 November this year, and the organizers need your help to make the event a big success.

As part of the recruitment drive for this attempt, Craig Glenday - the book's Editor in Chief - knocked up his own "Free Hugs" sign and took to St Pancras International station in London.

"I really wasn't expecting many people to take me up on the offer, given how miserable most early morning commuters seem to be," said Craig. "But after about 10 minutes of no reactions whatsoever, I got my first hug - a group hug, in fact, by a gang of lovely old ladies! Then the flood gates opened, and dozens came forward for a cuddle."

Guinness World Records Day is a global celebration of record breaking, and marks the anniversary of GWR's own record for being the biggest selling copyright book of all time.

"The idea to spread the word and the joy of record-breaking around the world," explains Craig, "and get as many people as possible setting or breaking records in a single day. It's costs nothing to have your record ratified by GWR, and it's open to anyone in the world. It's a great way to raise money for charity, too - we help raise millions of pounds every year."

Already scheduled in for this year are mass cheerleading events (USA), a giant gingerbread man (Norway), the biggest bikini parade (Australia), concrete block chopping (Mexico), pickled egg eating (Scotland), bus-pulling with the hair (England) - and the largest ever group attempt at Sport Stacking, the high-speed cup-stacking sport thats getting ever more popular around the world.

What will you do? To register an attempt, or to take part in an event near you, log on to www.guinnessworldrecords.com

Craig concludes: "A hug costs you nothing but can seriously improve your day. Come along to St Pancras International in the early morning of 12 November and claim your free hug - and hopefully set a world record at the same time! (less info)