PERPIGNAN, France -- The 62-year-old Catalan and local
government worker Lluis Colet spoke for five straight
days and four nights (124 hours) about Spanish painter Salvador
Dali, Catalan culture and other topics-setting the world record
for the Longest
Speech.
"This is a big day for me and I dedicate this
record to all those who defend Catalan language and culture,"
he said, his voice fainter after five days of nonstop talking.
/ (Photo: AFP/File/Raymond Roig) -enlarge
photo
Three notaries were on hand to recognise
the feat which allows Colet to enter it in the Book of Records.
The previous record was held by an Indian man
who delivered a 120-hour speech.
Colet began speaking at Perpignan's railway station
by reciting the works of famous authors or using some of his
own writing. He also spoke profusely about Dali, a painter
he admires, and Catalan culture.
Large crowds turned out in support of Colet,
who received a rapturous applause at the end of his speech.
