Gas barbecues at the ready for Meat Week

Meat Week is taking place in the US and a flurry of gas barbecues will form the main part of the celebrations, it has been reported.

The week was conceived by two co-workers in Florida in 2005 and has now spread to more than 16 cities across the US, CBS News reported.

Speaking to the news provider, Derek Atkinson, the organiser of New York's Meat Week chapter, said: "It's eight nights of barbecue. It's unhealthy - it's horrible for you. But it's delicious. But it's about getting together with your friends and eating the hell out of some smoked meat - and sometimes potato salad."

Even vegetarians take part, with many being drawn to the communal, family-style environment found at the Southern barbecue restaurants.

Mr Atkinson, a former vegetarian, said eating so much meat can be a challenge.

"I have to pace myself if I'm going to make it," Atkinson said. "I'll have meat sweats by Thursday."
Washing D.C is another US city which will enjoy Meat Week.

Published by Gordon Parry