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Whimsical 'flying' competition over harbour is back

Jasmine Ketibuah-FoleyBristol
News imageBristol Picture A man wearing a costume in the shape of a small speedboat that says Harbour Master on the side. He is in mid jump falling towards the water, and his legs are sticking out beneath the boat. He has a blue helmet and lifejacket on.Bristol Picture
The Bristol Birdman event involves using homemade costumes to "soar" over the water

An event in which thrillseekers "fly" over water in homemade costumes is returning to a harbour for a second year – and is set to be bigger.

Bristol Birdman, which will take place on 14 June, involves competitors jumping off a 14ft high (4.5m) platform to try to travel as far as possible.

Organisers from the Grassroots Communities youth education charity said they aim to fundraise £100,000 at this year's event, which will include performances from bands and a livestream.

"It's a fun day out for the city," said project manager Heather Vernon.

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About 10,000 spectators turned up last year to watch, Vernon said.

Last year's award for furthest distance flown was won by a team from the Bakehouse Factory events agency – with one man dressed as a piece of toast, accompanied by supporters in various condiment outfits.

News imageBristol Picture A group of people wearing different costumes – two people are dressed as jam jars, with gingham lids on their heads, and one man is dressed as a jar of Marmite, except the label reads "My Mate". Another is wearing entirely silver and holding a large spoon. The group is celebreating and a man in a yellow bodysuit in the centre holds up a prize.Bristol Picture
Bakehouse Factory's winning team for 2025 included jam jar outfits and a Marmite-style costume

The event rules state that the flying contraptions must be made from recycled materials.

Awards such as the most creative use of recycled material will also be up for grabs.

Around 12 teams have already registered this year and more are expected to join, Vernon said.

Funds will be raised via public donations, sponsorships and business entry fees.

News imageBristol Picture A man wearing a costume in the shape of a piece of toast. He is standing at the edge of a platform supported by scaffolding. Crowds surround the platform and it is a sunny day. Bristol Picture
Last year's winning competitor, wearing a slice of toast costume, prepares to jump

All profits will go towards Grassroots Communities' programme of work.

The charity aims to support young people in local communities by providing them with access to education, employment opportunities and mentoring.

It is based in south Bristol but delivers education programmes across the city.

The event, which is free to attend, will take place on Baltic Wharf from 11:00 BST near Underfall Yard. It is expected to last about four hours.

Applications to take part or sponsor the event are open now.

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