A coastal town was forced to cancel its New Year's Eve fireworks over concerns it could have scared a walrus which had washed up on its shore.
The large walrus, nicknamed "Thor," was spotted at Scarborough Harbour on December 30 - attracting crowds who wanted to catch a glimpse of the animal, which is normally found in the Arctic Circle.
It's thought the walrus could have come from as far as Canada, and is likely to be "wandering" before making his way back to his Arctic habitat.
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The animal has been identified as Thor, an adolescent male that was seen on beaches in Hampshire earlier this month - and was also spotted in Holland and France.
Marine experts advised Scarborough Council to cancel their planned New Year's Eve firework display over concerns about the emotional effect on the animal, the Mirror reports.
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."
Wildlife charities have warned visitors to keep their distance from Thor, avoid approaching him and to keep dogs away from him.
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