Light sensor scuppers keepy-uppy record attempt

James Pope, 19, says he wants to attempt the world record again in August

A world record attempt for the longest keepy-uppy stint was scuppered after 12 hours by a supermarket light sensor.

TikToker James Pope,19, from Canvey Island, Essex, live-streamed his attempt to beat the current record of 28 hours, achieved by Victor Ericsson from Sweden in 2023.

Mr Pope began the challenge in his garage at 12:00 BST on Sunday but dropped the ball by 01:00 on Monday when an automatic light switched off at a supermarket and left him unable to see.

"At the time when I was 12 hours in, I still had a lot in me to still keep going. It's a shame really," he said.

Mr Pope has amassed about 200,000 followers on TikTok in the last few years, but added that live-streaming had "really picked up" in the last few months.

"I go around Canvey doing kick ups for as long as I can and when I drop the ball - we end the live," he said.

James Pope from Canvey Island live streamed his world record attempt for 12 hours

He added: "Maybe I wouldn't have completed it but I reckon, I definitely could have got close."

He said he would make another attempt in August.

'Proper aching'

Friends had encouraged him during the attempt, feeding him burgers and providing plenty of water as he made his way around Canvey.

The teenager even used a portable urinal and a discreet screen during the live-stream in a bid to keep the ball moving - with viewers still able to see his feet at all times.

Mr Pope said: "The first couple of hours, I was like proper aching and thinking there is no way I can do it.

"But when you get six or seven hours in, you sort of get into a zone and a rhythm of kick ups.

"I did not think I was going to get 12 hours or anywhere near that. I think you just go numb and get into it."