The annual Birdman contest has been called off for bad weather.

Organisers decided this morning it would be unsafe for the competition to go ahead, officers at Worthing's seafront office said.

The contest, being held in Worthing for the first time, features competitors in weird and wacky outfits and contraptions leaping from the town's pier to see who can get the furthest.

Organisers took the decision after high winds and rough seas made the leap treacherous for the participants.

The first day of the contest yesterday was rated a success, with thousands going to watch the jumpers.