DIPPY the Diplodocus has welcomed its first visitors as the world-famous dinosaur takes centre stage at its new Coventry residence.
The 292-bone model’s big debut was greeted by crowds of excited visitors on the opening day of its three-year residency at the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum.
Dinosaur fan Daisy-Marie Taylor was selected to put in place the final toe bone, as the free Dippy in Coventry: The Nation’s Favourite Dinosaur exhibition was officially opened.
Ten-year-old Daisy-Marie, who attends Templars Primary School in Coventry, said: “Dippy is absolutely huge and it was amazing to be able to put the final bone in to place.
“It is something I will never forget.
“It is great to have Dippy in Coventry and I’m sure it is going to be really popular.”
Visitors to the exhibition can learn more about Dippy, the Jurassic period and how nature and the world has changed over time, with dinosaur-themed talks and activities for all the family to enjoy.
Dippy’s new Coventry residency in the Herbert’s Covered Court follows a 110-year tenure at the Natural History Museum in London and more recently an eight-venue tour across the UK.
The 26-metres long, 4.17 metres high model’s most recent return to the Natural History Museum attracted over one million people and Coventry’s newest resident is expected to create similar demand during Dippy’s stay in the city.
Dr Doug Gurr, Natural History Museum Director said: “One of our top priorities at the Natural History Museum is making sure the treasures of our collection are able to be enjoyed by as many people as possible whilst benefitting and inspiring communities across the UK.
“After such a successful tour of the UK we were thrilled to have recently had Dippy back in London for, Dippy Returns: The Nation’s Favourite Dinosaur. The success of this installation only further proved our dinosaur’s ability to draw in and enthuse a crowd about the natural world.
“This is why we decided that Dippy would hit the road once more and go on a long-term loan within the UK to benefit a new region and reach a whole new audience. We couldn’t be happier that The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum will be the host of that loan for the next three years and we can’t wait to see the Dippy effect in action again.”
Visit dippyincoventry.co.uk to book tickets, which are free, for the exhibition.
