Standing fast to turn back the tide

FOURTEEN fearless teams took on an impossible task at Oddicombe Beach on Saturday. The competitors in this year’s Last Team Standing event had the task of keeping the tide at bay for as long as they could.

The fun, family event organised by Babbacombe Cliff Railway and Three Degrees West saw each team given a space on the beach to build whatever they could manage in an hour.

After a short break an air horn summoned team members to mount their mounds/fortresses/castles and hold on tight as the tide came in around them.

Nicky Allen, one of the event organisers, said: “This was the third year we’ve put this event on and the quality of the builds has definitely improved each year.

“I think that people have watched and learned and 2018 saw some pretty impressive structures appear from the sand in quite a short space of time.

“This is one of our favourite events on the beach. There’s serious work but an absolutely lovely atmosphere. Lots of competition, quite a bit of jeering and plenty of mucking about.

“We have music all day to inspire and amuse, along with motivating and mildly offensive live commentary, and comedy, from Martyn Strange as he roves around the beach.”

With prizes and a trophy, courtesy of sponsors Bays Brewery on offer, competition was fierce.

As well as the railway and beach cafe being involved, Babbacombe Sailing Club was also on hand with a safety boat if needed.

In the end the winners were Bill Oddicombe, with Moaty McMoat Face in second place and All Things Bright and Beautiful in third position.