Rallying call for Sheringham to ‘fill the hill’ at Beeston Bump - and Cromer wants to do the same near its lighthouse

Beeston Bump, Sheringham.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2013)

Sheringham has launched a rallying call for thousands of people to turn up on the morning of Sunday July 27 - to stand on its famous Beeston Bump.

Cromer Lighthouse Hill. Picture: MIKE PAGE

It aims to raise funds for a community defibrillator - and has sparked a challenge which will see neighbouring Cromer trying to do the same thing near its lighthouse fuelling the friendly rivalry between the towns.

The idea was hatched by Sheringham carnival chairman Stuart McClean when he saw people heading up the hill for the annual procession of witness on Good Friday at Easter.

'I wondered about getting as many people as possible on the hill. We are always trying to think outside the box,' he added.

An aerial photo of the gathering will be taken by local photographer Dave 'Hubba' Roberts using his camera-carrying remote-controlled mini-helicopter.

People are being asked to turn up from 10.30am, make a donation to take part, and grab a sticker which will keep count of the numbers attending.

The aim is to raise about £1,200 to buy a heart-starting defibrillator for use at community events organised by the carnival committee throughout the year.

It came as the committee also trained more first aiders of its own to keep down costs while keeping members of the public safe at events.

Cromer carnival chairman Tony Shipp said the Cromer event was likely to happen during an evening in the fortnight of children's events ahead of the main week.

'We are keen to work alongside Sheringham - but we also want to attract more people than they do!' he smiled.

Sheringham carnival runs from August 2-10 with the parade on the Wednesday evening the 6th. Details at www.sheringhamcarnival.com