Lowestoft beachgoers break sandcastle record

Enjoying the bid to become sandcastle building record breakers at Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

And when the sands of time ran out, Lowestoft's battalion of builders were record breakers.

For the sun-soaked stunt at the town's South Beach saw a successful attempt to break the Suffolk record for the number of sandcastles built in one hour.

The record attempt was started with a countdown from Lowestoft town mayor Nick Webb, before he quickly dashed on to the beach to collect a bucket and spade to join in with the flurry of activity.

He said: 'What more could I ask for with the weather? Lowestoft has done it again – it is just a phenomenal day for the town.'

Enjoying the bid to become sandcastle building record breakers at Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

Organised by Lowestoft Lions as part of this year's Lowestoft Summer Festival, the event saw people of all ages join together to build 1,574 sandcastles – beating the previous Suffolk record of 520 sandcastles, set during last year's festival.

Christine Smithers, 58, from Lowestoft, who attended the event with her family, said: 'The community atmosphere here today is very special; it is an event which has brought everyone together to have a good time.'

Mrs Smithers' grandson, Kitson, nine, also gave some sandcastle building tips, explaining how the record was toppled but the castles stood firm: 'We have been going to the sea to get wet sand and then letting it dry off to make the castles stronger. I am really enjoying being with my brothers and family trying to beat the record.'

Judges were on hand to officiate the evening of fun on Saturday, with each sandcastle required to be two feet square and having a design which included four turrets that did not crumble.

Mark Lanham, chairman of Lowestoft Summer Festival 2016, said: 'The whole event is good for the town as it brings the town together and shows real community spirit.'