A long and romantic kiss is something most desire at some time or another but a 20-hour long kiss is definitely something not for the faint-hearted.

Twenty hours is the duration of this year’s Kissing Marathon being organised by Bay Street for the third consecutive year. This is twice as long as last year’s record set by the winning couple Louis Agius and Samantha Lautier Agius, who earned a place in Malta’s Book of Records for their perseverance. This year’s marathon starts on Saturday 10 February at 7pm and through to Sunday 11 February coming to a close at 4pm.

The prizes of the fun-filled Kissing Marathon 2007 include a fabulous diamond ring generously supplied by Super Gold Jewellers, Bay Street and 2 tickets to Sicily courtesy of Virtù Ferries for the winners. The second prize is a 3G Mobile Phone from Go Mobile while the third placed couple will enjoy an ‘Notte Corleone Package’ which includes dining at Corleone Restaurant and one night’s accommodation with breakfast at the Bay Street Hotel.

A variety show will be held at the Complex during the Kissing Marathon 2007 and will include a number of local artists including the She 2s, the Berlioz Sax Quartet, Claire Caruana and the Gran Ballo. The minimum duration of the kiss is set at two hours and the organisers are hoping to double last year’s record established at a record 10 hours.

Entry to what promises to be an amusing and entertaining event, is free and open to applicants over 18 years of age. The kiss has to be on the lips. Couples have to bear in mind that competition rules demand decency and good taste at all times. Applications may be collected any day from the Marketing Department at the Bay Street Complex, in St. Julian’s or by calling Tel 2372 2335 or 9945 7784.

The organisers of this year’s edition of the Kissing Marathon will be dedicating this event to promoting the YMCA cause.