CREWE'S Business Park has a new-t inhabitant in the shape of a six foot amphibian.

The unique sculpture of a newt has been created out of willows as a follow on to the successful seats which were made a year ago.

Local artist Sarah Gallagher has been working with students from South Cheshire College and Manchester Metropolitan University to create the sculpture.

The Business Park is known for its ecologically friendly surroundings and the sculpture will add to this as it is also a place for real newts to hibernate in winter.

The willow sculpture will be rooted to living trees so it will continue to grow as the trees themselves grow and joins a totempole, trelliswork and bird feeder station.

The artist's residency has been organised and funded by the borough council's leisure services and economic development in partnership with the Business Park and North West Arts Board.

Angela Chappell, Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council Arts Development Officer, said: "The willow chairs have thrived in the past year and proved a highly popular project for all involved.

"Like them the newt is very much in keeping with the Park's philosophy towards nature.

"It will allow real-life newts to flourish, as well as creating an attractive, interesting and growing sculpture for inhabitants and visitors on the Park to admire, whilst demonstrating both the skills of our local students and the continuing environmental efforts of the Park."

Artist Sarah Gallagher is pictured with Manchester Metropolitan University students James Dean, Bethany Willis and Elaine Taylor.

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