Children in Need

Students at Bournemouth University have set the record for the most number of people dressed as superheroes in one room.

Organiser Neil Francis, who works for the university's Students' Union, had the idea for the record as it was something that hadn't been attempted before - and it was a good way of raising money for Children in Need.

Students were asked to donate £5 each to enter, and the attempt, held on Guinness World Records Day, had to feature only 'instantly recognisable' superheroes.

So there were several Supermans, plenty of Batmans and lots of students dressed as characters from the animated film The Incredibles, among many others.

The record, officially entitled "most people wearing a superhero costume in a single venue" was presided over by two adjudicators from Guinness World Records.

They needed to see at least 100 people dressed in 'proper' costume to set the record.

'Touch and go'

And as the number of people in superheroes costume passed the hundred mark, adjucator Ben from Guinness World Records was able to confirm a new world record had indeed been set.

But he said: "It was a bit touch and go. I think we had to take 15 away from the final count - but they still managed to beat their target of 100.

"I think they've done a great job."

Bournemouth University Students' Union president Fred Ruffle said: "It's absolutely brilliant, I think our final total was 103, and we've raised lots of money for Children in Need and that's what it's all about."

Organiser Neil Francis says: "I'm exhausted, and I was so nervous before, but now I'm really chuffed for everyone. To the students, I'd say you literally are super, and thanks for taking part."

And are there any more world record attempts planned for the students?

Says Neil: "Next year, I think we'll try and defend it [if someone else beats it] or maybe go for even two records at the same - we'll see."