Bournemouth is set to host the 2024 Dorset Plane Pull event this August bank holiday.

Twenty-one teams of 20 people will pull a 35,000kg aircraft 50 metres in a bid to raise money for charity.

The event at Bournemouth Airport will be overseen by European Aviation and is expected to draw more than 400 participants, who have vowed to tackle the unique challenge.

Richard Griffin, founder and operations manager, said: "We are delighted to see the return of many regular charities as well as some newcomers.

"Over 400 people are raring to go and take on this unique challenge."

Since its inception in 2009, the Dorset Plane Pull event has generated more than £304,000 for a variety of charities.

These range from larger national organisations such as the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Dreamflight and MYTIME Young Carers, to Dorset-based charities including Helpful Hounds, Julia’s House, John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation and the Forest Holme Hospice.

This year, 21 teams are signed up to compete, with funds earmarked for 15 different charities.

Trophies will be up for grabs for the best fancy dress, best team name, and fastest pull time.

The 2023 winners were a team named 'Receding Airline', whose time to beat stands at 28.50 seconds.

Alongside the athletic contest, the day will also provide amusement for spectators.

Food, drink, and charity stalls, along with various entertainments and activities for younger visitors on offer, including the newly added science experiment tent and face painting and inflatables.

The event's showpiece, a Boeing 737, is being supplied by local aviation firm European Aviation, and national and Dorset businesses have committed to support the event.

The event is set to take place on Monday, August 26 at European Aviation, Aviation Business Park, Bournemouth Airport, starting at 10am and finishing at 5pm.

Entry to the site is free.

Further details can be found on the event's website www.planepull.co.uk.