A LIFESIZE willow whale has been constructed on the beach in Harwich.

A juvenile humpback whale which is about 7.5 metres in length has been built out of wicker as a way bringing art into the community.

Bending the willow into shape for the giant structure started on June 22 and finished over the weekend as part of the Harwich Festival.

Harwich Festival organisers were approached by Old Bank Studios, in Harwich, who came up with the idea to build the whale which will be left on display to the public.

Willow artist Deb Hart constructed the whale and held a series of workshops which involved members of the community to help with the whale.

Bev Caleno, owner of Old Bank Studios, said: “I came up with the concept of creating the whale.

“Every year during the festival we want to do something go give the town an artistic impact.

“So we wanted some type of sculpture built, and we wanted it to not be too expensive and we also wanted it to be biodegradable.”

Deb runs classes in the studios and was approached by Bev to create the whale with the help of volunteers.

Bev added: “I think we would like to leave the whale for as long as we can as it is biodegradable.

“I am hoping it will stand the rest of time.”

The festival has a rich tradition of showcasing public art projects which include the piano on the beach in 2014 and the panel project in 2016 which saw more than 3000 children decorate panels throughout the town in bright colours.

The sponsors for the whale were Essex County Council, Harwich town council, The Alma Inn and Old Bank Studios.