Two clan houses for the world's largest play structure have made a huge journey to their new home at one of Northumberland's most popular tourist attractions.
The whimsical structures travelled 326 miles on the back of a flatbed truck from Bristol to Alnwick Garden, where they will form part of what is intended to be the world's largest play structure when it opens in 2023, Lilidorei. The Christmas -themed fairytale village centred around elves, dwarves, goblins, pixies and trolls will have nine clans - each of which has a specific house, such as the two seen on the truck.
Thomas Johnson, 45, from Newcastle spotted the trucks on his commute to work and said: "I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw these two trucks loaded with magical looking fairy houses, not what I normally see on the A1! My kids will absolutely love visiting Lilidorei."
The first clan house was installed in July of this year, and the rest are set to be installed ahead of Lilidorei's expected opening in spring next year around the centrepiece of the magical village, the Elfic Play Structure. Focused on bringing tourists to the region outside of the busy summer season, it is hoped the attraction will bring another 280,000 people to the region.
However, it's not just for tourists. "Free Fridays" will be offered during term time so that all children in Northumberland and the surrounding areas can visit the attraction for free during their primary education.
The Duchess of Northumberland, Jane Percy, who came up with the project, said: "Lilidorei has lived in my imagination for the past 12 years and I am delighted to bring my creative vision to life. The saddest thing is when scientists disprove theories, and we are told that the Loch Ness monster doesn’t exist or that the tooth fairy isn’t real or that Santa is make-believe.
"Lilidorei turns all this upside down. It exists and it is captivating. We cannot wait to open the doors to Lilidorei and release the magic".
The project has been supported by the Borderlands inclusive Growth Deal, a £452 million agreement which brings investment to Northumberland, Cumbria and the Scottish Borders. It is claimed that Lilidorei will boost the economy of Alnwick and the surrounding area by £68 million over the next ten years.
What do you think of the "clan houses" being installed at Lilidorei in Alnwick Garden? Let us know!
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