Mancunian sports fans are being urged to pen their most humorous efforts as part of a nationwide search for the fan with the most ‘banner banter’.
The nationwide competition, provided by Tullamore D.E.W Irish whiskey, hopes to find the best banner writer in the UK, with £5000 going to the author of the wittiest scroll.
Dr Jamie Cleland, of Loughborough University, conducted an analysis of banner writing which highlighted the sociological reasons why fans choose to engage in the art.
“The act of creating the banners is naturally a very social occasion,” said Dr Cleland.
“Getting together with a group of friends to create witty banners for display at sporting events allows supporters to express a mischievous edge to their character and have a shared experience that bonds them with others in their social group.”
The competition is running in conjunction with a touring exhibition showcasing the most humorous banners made by sports fans across the world.
The tour heads to Manchester’s Exchange Square tomorrow and is aptly named ‘The Art of Banner Banter’.
The exhibition features a collection of banners from throughout the ages travelling up and down the country on a transformed bus – that also boasts a bespoke bar.
Photographic archives from around the world were scoured to find the most unforgettable and thought-provoking messages to display on the customised double-decker bus.
To enter your effort into the competition, snap your creation on display at a sporting event and share the photograph on twitter using the hashtag #bannerbanter.
Entrants must be over 18 – full details of the competition and terms and conditions are available at www.TullamoreDew.com/bannerbanter
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