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The ruling body of benchism, The Brotherhood of the Bench, has forgone the announcement of a shortlist due to late entries from cities vying for the role of inaugural city hosting the first International Bench Day (2008).

Following representations from an additional seven cities & states, and much deliberation, the Brotherhood of the Bench announced the result at a press conference held in the same Northern working men's club as last year - where the same format and announcement was made, with a few minor changes.

Media interest was such that the press conference had to be moved, before starting, from the basement games room to the function room on the first floor, where Mr Eric Olthwaite, the chairman of the Entertainments Committee, announced a delay of two hours - although he agreed to open the bar (after which the bar reported record takings, even more than last year).

The Member's Bowling Green at the rear of the premises had been set aside for a display of benches from around the world, but alas it was left to the UK to be the only exhibitor.

Each city that had initially lobbied to host the IBD 2008 were required to provide a bench (as set out in the competition rules of entry). Sadly, several cities were disqualified when their benches failed to arrive before the deadline. However, because of the widespread lack of benches (primarily blamed on the global credit crunch - with most fingers pointing at Fanny & Freddie) the disqualifications were suspended.

The city that has been awarded the distinction of hosting the International Bench Day for 2007 is.... Beijing as the Chinese government offered an exciting opportunity for the committee to travel, gratis.