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International arts group METAL - based in Chalkwell Park in Southend - has been awarded the Guinness World Record for the longest line of continuous bunting.

The continuous stream of small flags, cotton and ribbon was created by more than 50 local schools and community groups. It's the exact length of Southend on Sea’s landmark pier - 2158 metres or 1.3 miles.

The previous record stood at 1504.72m set in July 2006 by the charity, the Myotubular Trust.

Throughout the summer of 2009, Southend's community became inspired. METAL received more than 9,000 flags of all colours and designs; some with messages to loved ones, others with embroidered patterns, knitting and appliqué.

Special recognition from Metal goes to:
- The Hadleigh Evening WI who contributed 1,313 flags
- Shoebury High School contributed the largest number of flags from a senior school - 782
- West Leigh Juniors contributed the largest number from a junior school - 540
- Hamstel Infants contributed the largest number from an infant school – 533
- The largest number of flags from an individual came from Anita Shepherd, who contributed 164 flags



“The bunting project is an excellent example of how METAL have come into Southend and inspired the community to become involved. It has shown how art can be inclusive as contributions of flags have been received from all differing community groups – young and old alike.” Southend Councillor Derek Jarvis told longpier.com

Colette Bailey, Managing Director of Metal added,

“Metal worked really hard for this Guinness World Record but so did everyone around the borough. We couldn’t have achieved this without everyone taking on the challenge.”

The world record is currently on show in Chalkwell Park.