Brighton's zombie walk could return next year with new name

Beach of the Dead started in 2007 in the city with a handful of ghouls and ghosts, before attracting thousands of people each year.

The popular event was cancelled in 2013 due to an increase in insurance and operation costs.

Kate Amer, who led the first march, said that the event had become a “victim of its own success”.

She told The Argus in 2013: “It just costs too much and takes up too much time - last year it all went way over the £2,000 budget.”

However, a group is now fundraising to resurrect the event with a new team at the helm for 2024. The event would be renamed Brighton Zombie Walk.

Organisers are aiming to raise £1,100 to fund an initial event application fee to Brighton and Hove City Council.

They have appealed for support as “event costs, especially since the cost of living crisis, have increased considerably - with sponsors and advertisers reducing their spends”.

Should the event be approved and raise enough funds to go ahead, the walk will take place on October 26, 2024.

Thousands of people used to take part in the zombie walk each year (Image: Simon Dack)

Brighton resident and organiser of the new event Gavin Baker said: “Beach of the Dead was originally started way back in 2007, but ceased due to rising costs and health and safety.

“These events were very popular and a lot of fun so we would love to resurrect this tradition.

“Zombies will once again stagger the streets of Brighton.”

Residents have shared their memories of the event, describing the campaign as a “worthy cause”.

“It would be a real great if this could return - it was a fantastic event,” one resident said.

So far, the campaign has raised over £250 with more than three weeks to go to reach their target.

As part of the crowdfunding initiative, a number of rewards have been set, including pin badges, exclusive afterparty tickets and Brighton Zombie Walk t-shirts.