[bbfan1991]

An annual Valentine's Day kissing marathon in Thailand has halved in competitors since last year.

Couples must keep their lips locked together at all times for two days, including toilet breaks, if they are to win an expensive diamond ring and hotel vouchers.

However, with the world record currently standing at 46 hours and 24 minutes, many seem to have been put off by the challenge.

General manager of Ripley's World Pattaya, Somporn Naksuethrong, told Reuters: "The world record is very difficult to beat. Contestants have to be patient to prove their love."

Last year's winners, 31-year-old Lakkana Tiranarat and her husband, have returned in an attempt to beat their own record.

"We'll try to do better than last year but maybe just for a little longer. We'll see how tough the other competitors are but we'll do our best," Tiranarat said.