You can often get a fairly good indication of the declining level of a civilization from the state of its leisure activities. The Romans enjoyed brutal arena sports right up to the end of their empire, and the ancient Aryan’s idea of fun was to let loose a horse and declare war on the owner of the land where it stopped to eat. And so it goes…

We are therefore more than a little intrigued by this latest example of British entertainment in the form of a Riot Training Experience For Two on offer at a generic online lad’s emporium. The ‘experience‘ takes up most of a day, and apparently involves ‘the noise, fire, smoke, fear and excitement of the battle from both sides, acting as both a rioter and a riot cop!’

Unfortunately youngsters under the age of 16 aren’t allowed to participate (surely they would have most to learn?) although the organizers have thoughtfully included a light lunch as part of the day’s events. A touching gesture, don’t you think? However for those who think it’s all a bit too soft, we are reminded that participants should be prepared for ‘a bit of pushing and shoving’. Phew, thanks for the warning.

The price for all these jollities is a stonking £167.99, but you’re probably going to have to bring your own tazers and water cannon if you want to step up the action a bit. Tear gas is probably not optional though, and no Martha, the kettling section does not include a nice cup of tea.