Herne Bay Giant

Herne Bay, located on the Kent coast, is a true 21st-century seaside town with strong ties to its Victorian heritage. In early 2006, Strange Cargo spent an enjoyable month engaging with the community, both on the streets of the town and during a residency at the magnificent Kings Hall. A large number of local residents participated in consultations and open days, where we gathered all the information needed to create the Herne Bay Giant.

It was decided that their Giant should be a beautiful lady, reflecting the town's rich history of fishing, tourism, and its stunning, familiar Victorian architecture.

The locals named her Lily, inspired by the Fleur de Lis, a common motif in the town's architectural ironwork. She was brought to life by the Sheriff of Canterbury during a musical sea shanty ceremony and paraded through the town with her Fishy Big Head companions.