Crazy horses are set to gallop through the streets of Eastbourne on the 3 and 4 of June as the world’s first ever pantomime horse racing championships head to the seaside for the harbour’s annual Fun Weekend.
Held at the resorts award winning Sovereign Harbour Marina, organisers, the Maritime Volunteer Service (MVS), are this year calling on groups of two to three people to enter themselves as a costumed horse and compete for a grand prize, while setting first ever world records including the fastest pairing, number of jumps and ‘best bred’ horse!
Hugh Gallagher, head of the local MVS unit, says, “This is such a great opportunity to raise money for charity while having a whale of a time. We look forward to welcoming MP Nigel Waterson who will be opening the festivities, and would also like to thank the support of the Waterfront businesses and all other organisations taking part. The Fun Weekend will most certainly live up to its name this year!”
Each entry will be charged at £10 per ‘horse’, with all proceeds going to the MVS charity. Once this is paid, participants are welcome to use their horse to raise money for their favoured charity – perhaps even racing against fellow colleagues or rival companies to encourage sponsorship and gain as much cash as possible for their chosen cause.
Entrants are being encouraged to design the wackiest or most majestic costumes possible, covering the two or three people making up the horse. But for those who simply cannot resist joining in on the day costumes will be provided. Perfect for families, offices or groups of people looking to raise money for charity or simply have a grand old knees up in true pantomime style.
The fundraising weekend is being run by the Maritime Volunteer Service, a national charity which supports the local maritime authorities in emergencies, and raises public awareness of the importance of the sea. Adults of all ages are trained in vital seamanlike skills while units operate a substantial fleet of vessels from harbours around the coast, including Eastbourne.
Eastbourne Borough Council Spokesperson for Tourism Councillor David Elkin, says, “This event really is one of a kind and with 5 theatres, and a long standing history of successful pantomimes, Eastbourne is the ideal place to establish the championships. The Maritime Volunteer Service is a truly commendable charity, invaluable to Eastbourne as a seaside resort.”
The whole Marina will be a hive of activity, with a classic car cavalcade, German car display, fairground rides, craft stalls and performances from the Eastbourne Scottish Pipe Band, as well as a Maritime and Coastguard Agency display answering all your questions. “With the championships ready and raring to go, all we can hope for now is the sun to come out and truly mark the start of summer down by the sea!” says Hugh Gallagher.
Make sure you take up the chance to set a unique world record while enjoying a fun filled weekend for all the family; telephone David Hughes on 01323 768998 or Hugh Gallagher 01424 812923.
For advice on where to stay, go to
www.visiteastbourne.com or telephone 0906 711 2212 (calls cost 50p per minute at standard rate).
