The world's biggest peace drum (taiping gu) and gong made their debut at the opening rally of the HK Drum Festival at Victoria Park today to synergise the city.

Some 3,000 drummers from local organisations and schools vied to win a place in the Guinness Book of Records by playing drums simultaneously.

Beat of life: Some 3,000 drummers from local organisations and schools vied to win a place in the Guinness Book of Records by playing drums simultaneously.

The festival, which will run until November 1, aims to boost spirits with heartening drum sounds.

It features a series of activities including the HK Synergy 24 Drum Competition, HK Drum Music Exhibition and an opening concert.

Officiating guests of today's event included Secretary for Home Affairs Dr Patrick Ho, Legislative Councillor Timothy Fok, HK Tourism Board Chairman Selina Chow, Director of Leisure & Cultural Services Anissa Wong and Commissioner for Tourism Eva Cheng.

The peace drum, 2.6m tall with a diameter of 3.46m, was produced by the Shanxi Jiangzhou Drum Troupe.

The gong, with a diameter of 1.55m, was produced by the Hubei Wuhan Gong Factory.