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Old Hunstanton

Kings & Queens of the Sandcastles

Buckets of fun had at annual RNLI sandcastle competition held on Old Hunstanton beach

Buckets of fun had at annual RNLI sandcastle competition held on Old Hunstanton beach

"What I normally do is just dig a big hole, and put loads of beautiful rocks around the sides," 9 year old Brett says, who's built a few in his time.

His 6 year old sister, Alexandra, adds, "We're going to put some sandcastles around the big hole and in the middle - and then there's going to be lots of other little sandcastles and we will decorate them with rocks."

I ask if they'll be able do it in an hours time.  Brett replies, "We've done one three times as big as this in a few hours."  Love the confidence.

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Siblings Alexandra & Brett

Nearby, Sam is helping his young children with their build, 'tapping is key' he tells them.

"I'm just trying to encourage them to just build a sandcastle more than anything, as we have a tendency not to complete things, so I'm trying to make sure we at least get one sandcastle built!

"The texture is key as well, so making sure that there's enough moisture in the sand to make sure it holds and withstands this heat."

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7 year old Felicity, along with her two younger siblings, are about to lift a sandcastle mould.  And there're smiles and giggles as it's a good one - all the towers have held.

"Our idea is to have a sandcastle in the middle, and then do more - with cups - around the outside," she says, "I think we can win," she adds with a big smile.

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Felicity's siblings

The prize for this annual event, split into 3 age groups, is vouchers for the RNLI shop.

Felicity isn't the only one eager to impress.  "Our game plan is built the biggest castle, add some decorations around the outside, and try and win," says 10 year old Florence.

Her brothers are busy at work, 14 year old Tyler adds, "To be honest I'm just listening to what they say - and trying to get as much done as possible."

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I chat to one of the judges, "It's all about children, we are keen to see how they've gone about it and what work they've put in, and how creative they have been.

"It's coming up with an original idea, even if it's not perfectly executed, there're wonderful new ideas every year that the children come up with.  It's the idea and the effort."

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There's definitely a lot of effort being put in.  I pass Alexandra and Brett, who've dug a hole so big, they're now knee deep.  And lots of other brilliant creations.

I don't envy being the judges.  In my opinion those taking part are all Kings & Queens of the sandcastles!

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