Arun District Council is hoping international airline Virgin Atlantic will continue to support the Bognor Birdman competition.

Following the success of this year's event, which involved daring individuals hurling themselves off Bognor pier to try to travel the furthest, July 4 has been provisionally agreed as the best date for next year.

But funding needs to be found to maintain the high standard.

Virgin boss Richard Branson supported and took part in this year's event and Arun District Council has already noted interest from several prospective sponsors for next year's competition.

Councillor Richard Wilby, Arun's executive for leisure, said: "The Birdman event has always been hugely popular but with Virgin Atlantic's support it has been given a boost. This is good for local businesses, tourism and the town as a whole.

"The council wishes this momentum to build and will do all it can to assist."