Newark: Explorers invited to walk inside inflatable whale

People could squeeze into the inflatable whale

A 60ft (18m) long whale - which is also a performance space - has landed in a Nottinghamshire town.

The inflatable sculpture has been brought to Newark on Saturday as one of a series of events to drive interest in the town centre.

Explorers would be able to walk inside it, with other activities including a paddle board race on the river.

Newark and Sherwood District Council said it wanted to back local firms while emphasising sustainable policies.

An acrobatic diver would greet the explorers

Performers at Circo Rum Ba Ba said the The Plastic Ocean Show would use puppets and music, aiming to highlight the conservation message.

A spokesperson for the group said people wishing to take part would squeeze into the belly of the inflatable whale.

Once inside, the audience would meet an acrobatic diver who would lead them on a mission to save a turtle from a "deluge of plastic".

The council says the show aligns with its Motion for the Ocean declaration, which aims to recognise that "our ocean is in crisis and that local government has an essential role to play in recovering its health".

Emma Oldham, portfolio holder for biodiversity and environmental services, said: "No matter where we reside in the UK, we're all intimately connected to the ocean, always within 70 miles of its shores.

"Our lives are intricately woven with the ocean's influence, from the air we breathe to the food we consume, and the crucial role it plays in regulating our climate.

"Even if we don't reside by the coast, our daily actions have a profound impact—from the pollutants we discharge down our drains and plug holes, to the litter and pollution that find their way into our rivers and beaches, and the carbon emissions we generate.

"The whole day will be a wonderful showcase demonstrating how wonderful our town is and what a great place it is to visit, so everyone is encouraged to head on into Newark for a fantastic local day out!"