Bognor Regis Pier facts for kids
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| Official name | Bognor Regis Pier |
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| Type | Pleasure Pier |
| Total length | 117 yards (107 m) |
| Opening date | 5 May 1865 |
| Coordinates | 50°46′52″N 0°40′33″W / 50.7811°N 0.6759°W |
 Bognor Regis Pier
Location in West Sussex
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The Bognor Regis Pier is a famous landmark in the seaside town of Bognor Regis, West Sussex, England. It first opened its doors on May 5, 1865. The pier was designed by two clever engineers, Sir Charles Fox and J. W. Wilson.
When it was first built, the pier was very long, stretching about 305 meters (1000 feet) into the sea. Today, it is shorter, measuring about 107 meters (350 feet). The pier is a special historic building, officially recognized as a Grade II listed structure. This means it's an important part of history and needs to be protected.
Contents
The Pier's Story: From Opening to Today
Early Days and New Additions
After it first opened, the Bognor Regis Pier kept growing and changing. In 1880, a small bandstand was added, where people could enjoy music. Later, in 1900, a large pavilion opened at the end of the pier. This was a big building where visitors could gather and have fun. In 1903, a special landing stage was built. This allowed paddle steamers, which are boats powered by large wheels, to dock right at the pier.
The Pier During World War II
During World War II, the pier played a different role. It became a lookout station for the Royal Navy, the United Kingdom's navy. It was even given a special name: HMS St Barbara. From here, sailors could watch the sea and help protect the coast.
Challenges and Changes
The pier faced some tough times over the years. In 1964 and 1965, big storms hit, causing parts of the pier, including the pavilion, to fall into the sea. Later, in the 1970s, two fires broke out within just three months. Because of this damage, the pier had to close in December 1974.
In 1989, the pier was given its Grade II listing status. This was a way to recognize its historical importance. However, even with this special status, the pier's condition continued to get worse. By 1994, there was even a plan to remove the remaining part of the pier that stretched out into the sea.
The International Bognor Birdman Competition
What is the Birdman Event?
One of the most exciting things that happens at Bognor Regis Pier is the International Bognor Birdman competition. This is an annual event held every summer. People build their own human-powered "flying" machines and launch themselves from the end of the pier! The goal is to glide the furthest distance over the water.
The Birdman event is usually not taken too seriously. Competitors often create really wild and funny machines, and they dress up in amazing costumes. It's a fantastic show that brings in a huge crowd and gets a lot of attention from local news.
History of the Birdman Event
The Birdman competition actually started in a nearby town called Selsey in 1971. But by 1978, it had become so popular that it needed a bigger space. So, it moved to Bognor Regis. Famous people, like businessman Richard Branson, have even taken part in the competition.
In 2008, the event had to move again, this time to Worthing. This was because about 60 meters (200 feet) of the pier had been removed due to storm damage. People worried it wouldn't be safe for contestants to land in shallower water. Luckily, the shortened pier was judged safe for the event in 2010, and the Birdman competition returned to Bognor. Now, there are annual Birdman events held in both Bognor and Worthing!
