Brighton is gearing up for a whale of a weekend when the 2012 WhaleFest returns to the city next month.

The event is the largest celebration of wild whales and dolphins in the world, with last year’s event welcoming over 2,500 people.

Organisers have promised fun for all ages, including 35 life-size whales, dolphins, sharks and turtles, a guided tour of a sperm whale’s belly and a virtual whale-watching trip.

Held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole hotel, the meeting marks the 30th anniversary of the international vote to suspend the hunting of whales, which was announced outside the hotel in 1982.

Advance tickets to WhaleFest on Octber 27-28, are now available from £9 per adult at www.whale-fest.com .

Free entry for children under 16 all weekend.