TV comedian Holly injured in end-of-pier showdown

Organisers said she was strapped to a spinal board after being rescued from the water by divers during yesterday's incident and was taken to hospital with a suspected dislocated shoulder and fractured arm.

Around 10,000 spectators are believed to have attended the second day of the two-day event, where so-called "fun flyers" dress up in elaborate costumes and attempt to "fly" the furthest off the West Sussex town's pier.

Writer and comedian Walsh was updating supporters on Twitter moments before, telling them: "About to attempt to fly off Worthing Pier in a cardboard helicopter. This could be the most exhilarating/humiliating 15 secs of my life."

Entrants in the event included a pair dressed up as the Owl and the Pussycat complete with rowing boat, and Batman and Robin.

Before launching herself off the pier yesterday, Sam Hallett, 44, from Shoreham, who was dressed as Penelope Pitstop, said: "It's my first time. I'm a bit nervous.

"I've just been told to go feet first and keep straight."

Elaine Sinclair, 51, from Worthing, said it was the second time she had taken part in the event.

She said: "The one thing I've learnt is to wear shoes, as it wasn't much fun hobbling up the beach afterwards without them last time.

"The main thing is to not take it too seriously and to have fun."

On Saturday, Eddie the Eagle took part in the more seriously-taken competition, where entrants launch themselves off the pier in gliders and other makeshift flying contraptions.

The one-time Olympic ski jumper, who flew complete with skis and ski poles, only managed to fly 7.52m before ending up in the sea.