A video on YouTube shows the best bits of that first run and includes a rather sheepish-looking Osborne smiling and pointing uncomfortably as men apply dollops of Vaseline to their nether regions ahead of the big event. Currently, this home-made piece of swimwear cinema has less than 1,000 views.  "The smuggler runs have been a huge success not only for the participants to release the closet exhibitionist in themselves, but most importantly for the charities that have benefited and for the public who just can't resist a peak at a budgie in its natural habitat," says Ned.  On a hot spring day in early May, around 50 friends took part in the inaugural six-mile run from Westbourne Grove to Wandsworth, a route which took in the length of the iconic Portobello Road and its busy market at 11am on a Saturday morning, as well as the King's Road on the day Chelsea won the FA Cup final.  A second run, on a mild Thursday evening in September, from Trafalgar Square to Notting Hill, was preceded with a synchronised strip and impromptu group stretching session in front of the facade of the National Gallery - much to the confusion of passers-by, who gathered to watch as James Westropp, a former Army lieutenant, led the warm-up with a megaphone.  "I challenge anyone to witness one of our runs and keep a straight face," says Ned. "Although the security guard on the side entrance of Harrods almost had a heart-attack when we attempted to take a detour through the food hall."  This Saturday's run also starts in Trafalgar Square but this time the famous Norwegian Christmas Tree will make a festive backdrop.  At 11am James, armed once again with a megaphone, will lead his men through a series of squats, thrusts and stretches before the runners take on the shoppers of the West End and Soho, culminating with a celebratory pint in any pub that will accept them (preferably one with central heating and a relaxed clothing policy).  Clearly, if the weather stays as cold as it has been there then many of the runners may see their confidence shrink somewhat - so please give them a warm reception if they cross your path.
This weekend men from across London will brave the cold wearing little more    than a smile and pair of swimming trunks. But it's all for a good cause says Felix    Lowe