Inflatable monster takes over cathedral for event

A giant inflatable monster was put up at the entrance to Peterborough Cathedral on Friday to mark the new Monsters of the Sea exhibition

A giant inflatable sea monster has taken over Peterborough Cathedral to mark its new exhibition, which is bringing creatures from the depths of marine history to life.

The exhibition is one of the largest the cathedral has seen and will feature 16 life-size animatronic sea creatures, from prehistoric to modern times.

Chris Dalliston, Dean of Peterborough Cathedral, said exploring the "extraordinary world" would be the highlight of Peterborough Cathedral's summer calendar.

The event, which begins on Monday, will run up to 1 September and include a full schedule of "marine-themed" events, including guest lectures and family-friendly workshops.

The Very Rev Chris Dalliston, Dean of Peterborough Cathedral, said the exhibition would "foster a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of ocean life"

The sea creature towered over the main entrance to the cathedral grounds

Mr Dalliston said: "This captivating showcase promises to transport audiences through the wonders of marine history, fostering a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of ocean life and the importance of marine conservation.

"Monsters of the Sea promises to be the highlight of Peterborough Cathedral's summer calendar, offering a mesmerising mix of entertainment, education and exploration."

The impressive cathedral building has seen successful fundraising events before, with an enormous Mars model in January and more than 37,000 people visiting the Gaia art installation in 2019.

The exhibition will feature prehistoric ichthyosaurs and purussaurus to Great White sharks

Director of marketing, Paul Stainton, previously told the BBC the cathedral cost £6,000 a day to run and events like this helped keep it open.

"We have been trying to make the cathedral fully inclusive to every walk of life and every person in Peterborough," he said.

"By using this space for events we are helping to attract a whole new audience.

"The city is struggling and we're trying to help."

Monsters of the Sea has been brought to Peterborough