THE region's endangered species will be recreated in giant ice sculptures for New Year's Eve celebrations.

Water voles and red squirrels, both facing extinction in the North-East, will be among the subjects crafted from blocks of ice to form an avenue of statues in Newcastle city centre.

They will be carved by David Gross, a sculptor based in Seaham, County Durham, and chef Darren Brinskey, who has worked on the QE2 cruise liner.

Mr Gross, who has several large wood sculptures on show in Chopwell Woods, near Gateshead, said: "Ice sculptures very much look like jewels in the light so this display will not only be fantastic to see, but hopefully will get across the message that our local species are like jewels to be treasured, otherwise, like the ice, they will disappear."

The sculptures will be on display in Old Eldon Square on January 31, from 11am to 4pm and the pair will also be creating pieces on the spot, using chainsaws to sculpt the ice.

The event is part of a daytime programme of family entertainment for New Year's Eve celebrations in the city.

From 11am, there will be street entertainment, a Victorian fair, and horse-drawn wagonette rides through the city.

Festivities will reach a climax at 5.30pm with a firework and laser display at Newcastle Civic Centre.

For further details, contact 0191-277 8000, or visit the festival's website at www.winter-festival-newcastle-gateshead.co.uk

Published: 23/12/2004