Devon celebrates its world record holders

Devon has emerged as a powerhouse of Guinness World Records achievements. 

From quirky talents to awe-inspiring displays of strength and endurance, Devonians have left an incredible mark on the global stage, earning themselves a well-deserved place in the records of history.

For those unfamiliar, Guinness World Records serves as the authoritative judge of extraordinary human achievements, carefully verifying and documenting record-breaking feats from around the world. 

From the sublime to the surreal, the organisation documents achievements that capture the imagination and inspire awe.

Devon's ascent to world record prominence is nothing short of awe-inspiring. 

Among its standout achievements is the creation of the longest knitted bunting line, a monumental challenge undertaken by the Devon County Show, Crafts, and Gardens. Stretching an astonishing 14,279 metres, this vibrant tapestry captivated the world's attention, earning accolades in May 2020.

In Exeter, Jude Coram demonstrated a mastery of origami, setting a new record for the largest display of origami shirts with a staggering 4,036 carefully folded creations in August 2021.

Meanwhile, in Bideford, musician Mark Edwards embarked on a marathon bass guitar session, strumming his way into the record books with an astounding 60-hour performance in August 2021. 

The Knott family's legacy of lighthouse keeping stands as a testament to Devon's rich maritime heritage.

Spanning five generations and a combined 278 years of service, the Knott family's dedication to safeguarding the coastline is unparalleled. 

Five generations and eight members of the Knott family were lighthouse keepers for a combined 278 years of service between 1730 and 1910. 

The family profession started with William Knott who maintained South Foreland Low lighthouse in Kent between 1730 and 1780; the line ended with Henry Thomas Knott who retired from Skerries Lighthouse in the Isle of Anglesey off Wales in 1910.

Lighthouses in Devon include Start Point in Kingsbridge, Bull Point lighthouse near the village of Mortehoe in North Devon, Bideford lighthouse and Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse in Plymouth. 

In Exeter, Team Natural Power showcased their strength and teamwork by moving a staggering 864,736.30 kilograms (1,906,417.20 pounds) on a prowler sled in just 12 hours in July 2022, setting a new benchmark for collective achievement and determination.

Meanwhile, individuals like Sophia Seidl and Ashley Wallis have demonstrated remarkable feats of agility and skill. 

Sophia Seidl's endurance in performing a seven hula hoop split for 2 minutes and 56 seconds in Totnes in September 2022 left spectators in awe, while Ashley Wallis' agility in executing 75 forward rolls in one minute in Honiton in May 2013 showcased a level of athleticism.

More Devon record holders include:

• Longest functioning tin can telephone: The longest functioning tin can telephone is 373.79 m (1,226 ft 4 in) and was achieved by John Hems and Sidmouth Science Festival (both UK), in Sidmouth, Devon, UK, on 8 October 2022.
• Largest didgeridoo ensemble: The most participants in a didgeridoo ensemble was 238 at the Didge Fest UK in Escot Park, Devon, UK on 5 August 2006.
• Fastest behind the back handcuff escape: The fastest behind the back handcuff escape is 3.97 seconds, achieved by David Cox (UK) in Plymouth, Devon, UK, on 22 August 2022.