Nottingham's Santorini-themed beach has started to take shape ready for a summer of fun - someone just needs to tell the weather. However, it looks like next week could be warming up with the Met Office predicting a maximum temperature of 22°C on opening day, Wednesday July 17.
Work is well under way in Old Market Square - the sand is there but the pool has yet to be filled. The beach shack bar is in place once again and a new row of white-washed bench seats are under construction. Thrill seekers can take to the air on the 40m Skyflyer in front of the Council House, which is currently decked out with the England flag. This year's event, staged by the Mellors Group, will not be having the giant inflatable slide though.In keeping with the Greek theme a wooden hut will be selling gyros, while sweet-toothed fans can tuck into Nutella-filled crepes - and of course, it wouldn't be a beach without ice creams.
Other attractions include bungee trampolines, hook a duck and bumper boats. Volleyball, salsa dancing and movie nights are also part of the programme. Visitors will be entertained by live music at the beach bar from Thursday to Sunday. Sunday August 25, part of the bank holiday weekend, will be dedicated to a charity beach party in aid of the Little Ted Foundation. The urban seaside will be open until Sunday September 1.