Longest speech-world record set by Lluis Colet

 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.

   Colet had set the record once before in 2004 when he spoke for 48 straight hours.