Planned New Year's Eve firework display in Scarborough cancelled due to 'Thor' the walrus
It's due to the arrival of a walrus at the Harbour in the town
Last updated 31st Dec 2022
The planned New Year's Eve firework display in Scarborough this evening has been cancelled.
It's due to the arrival of a walrus at the town's harbour yesterday.
A spokesman for Scarborough Borough Council said:
“We have taken the decision to cancel tonight’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display on the advice of British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), because of the arrival of the walrus ‘Thor’ in the harbour.
“There are concerns that the display could cause distress to the mammal.”
Councillor Steve Siddons, leader of the council, said:
“We are really disappointed that we’ve had to cancel the fireworks but the welfare of the walrus has to take precedence.
“Our decision is based on expert advice from the BDMLR charity.”
Chris Cook, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire area coordinator for British Divers Marine Life Rescue, said:
“We welcome the decision to call off the fireworks but understand that some people will be disappointed the display isn’t going ahead.
“It is extremely rare that an Arctic walrus should come ashore on the Yorkshire coast.
“The creature needs time to rest and recuperate before it continues its journey.
“While there is understandable interest in the creature, we ask that it is left alone and not disturbed.”