The Beano has been awarded a second Guinness World Records title.
The iconic children’s entertainment brand has launched the world’s largest competition to finish a unique comic strip inspired by the V&A Dundee, with in excess of 650 entrants at the 3D Festival over the weekend.
People attending Scotland’s first design museum were faced with the challenge of completing a bespoke eight-page comic, which starred beloved Beano characters including the likes of Dennis the Menace and his dog Gnasher, Minnie the Minx and The Bash Street Kids.
The children’s favorite – which also holds the Guinness World Record for the longest running weekly comic – will give one lucky designer the chance to have their strip displayed in the V&A Dundee.
The comic strip sees the pupils of the Bash Street School invited to the museum, meeting its architect Kengo Kuma and director Philip Long. The final panel challenged entrants to draw what they think should be on display instead of Plug’s face.
Mike Stirling, Editorial Director of Beano Studios and Global Ambassador for Dundee said: “This new world record proves the ever-lasting love for our rebellious Beano characters, especially in their home city of Dundee. The competition shows that everyone can design something imaginative, creative and awesome.
“It’s no surprise to me that there’s so much fantastic creative talent in the city; Beano and V&A Dundee are iconic symbols of this. I can’t wait to see what Beano fans worldwide think when they check out our exclusive comic story, plus some of our favorite entries on Beano.com. Is there a more creative city anywhere, right now?”
On the subject of the record, Craig Glenday – Editor-in-chief of Guinness World Records – praised the Beano for its impact on youngsters, while teasing the possibility of further accolades. He added: “As a Dundonian myself, it’s particularly thrilling to award this Guinness World Records title to a comic as iconic – and as symbolic of Dundee – as the Beano. As the world’s longest-running comic, the Beano has inspired creativity (and naughtiness!) in kids for generations, so it’s fitting that it’s being celebrated by both V&A Dundee and Guinness World Records. And we’re still hoping to open a category for most sausages eaten by a dog in a minute for Gnasher, to add to their accolades!”
Meanwhile, Philip Long said: “We’re delighted to celebrate our opening with the Beano, in its own right, an icon of design. Beano Studios is a prime example of contemporary design evolution, adapting their character design over time to survive and thrive. “We look forward to welcoming audiences to view the winning design, alongside our Scottish Design Galleries and changing exhibitions.”
