This summer, We Are Weymouth proudly celebrates 100 years of sand sculpting with Sandworld, one of the town’s most iconic and imaginative attractions. First inspired by the incredible beach sculptures of Fred Darrington in 1925, Sandworld continues to honour this artistic tradition with world-class creativity and community celebration.
To mark the centenary, two major events are planned on Saturday 23rd August :-
Unveiling of the Fred Darrington Sand Sculpture
Location: Sand Sculpture Pod, Weymouth Beach – watch from the esplanade near the Pavilion
A special tribute celebrating the legacy of sand sculpting pioneer Fred Darrington will be brought to life in sand, honouring the man who started it all. This event is free to attend and designed for public viewing.
Centenary Sand Sculpture Competition
Location: Weymouth Beach
Open to all ages and abilities, this fun and friendly competition invites families, artists, and beachgoers to create their own sand masterpieces. Prizes will be awarded for the most creative sculptures, with a backdrop of summer celebrations and community spirit. Sand sculpting demonstrations will be shown during the event.
Mark Anderson, co-founder of Sandworld* and grandson of Fred Darrington, says: “It’s incredibly special to mark 100 years of sand sculpting in Weymouth, a tradition my grandfather Fred began with just a spade, some sand, and a whole lot of imagination. To see his legacy celebrated on the same beach where it all started – and to have him immortalised in sand – is both humbling and heart-warming. Sandworld has always been about inspiring creativity and bringing people together, and this summer’s celebrations capture that spirit perfectly.”
Dawn Rondeau-Irvine, Chief Operations Officer of We Are Weymouth, says: “Fred Darrington’s legacy lives on in the sand and smiles of Weymouth. For 100 years, his art has inspired generations. This summer, we invite the media to capture the joy, creativity, and community spirit that still flows through Sandworld and our beautiful beach.”
These events promise fantastic visual and filming opportunities, with access to sculptors, organisers, and local visitors for interviews and behind-the-scenes insights.
*Since its launch in 2011 by Fred’s grandson, Mark Anderson and fellow sand sculptor David Hicks, Sandworld has become a beloved local attraction showcasing international sculpting talent. A key part of Weymouth’s cultural identity, it reflects the town’s long-standing love of seaside spectacle, storytelling, and family fun.
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