But all that changed on September 1 when the town came alive for the International Bognor Birdman contest. Intrepid competitors from all over the world descended on Bognor to launch themselves from the end of the town’s pier and fly or glide the furthest possible distance by any means necessary.

All flying machines had to be human powered and competitors ranged from fun flyers through to ultra serious gliding experts. Prizes were not only awarded to contestants able to stay in the air for 20 seconds or more but also for a number of categories including “Most Unfortunate Entrant”, “Best Technically Prepared Craft” and the inevitable “Funniest Moment”. The ultimate prize was a £25,000 windfall for any Birdman able to go beyond the almost mythical 100 metre mark.

Magnificent men and their flying machines

The event undoubtedly brought out the best in Britain’s subculture of eccentrics and mad inventors. Birdman entrants used modified hang gliders, “Stop The Pigeon” style human powered bi-planes and an array of fatally flawed pedal-based contraptions in their quest for flight. More optimistic contestants, including Blue Peter presenter Zoe Salmon, resorted to covering themselves in feathers, dressing up as fairies and, in the case of a team of librarians, using books as wings.

See photos from the Bognor Birdman contest

Once again, the serious side of Bognor Birdman was dominated by veteran (and former world hang gliding champion) Ron “Bald Eagle” Freeman. The 51 year-old from Northumberland claimed his 9th victory after he soared 72.5 metres in his adapted hang-glider the Geordie Flyer. Over 14,000 spectators cheered Ron to victory and event organisers believe the Birdmen have raised a combined total of £100,000 for charity.