Fireworks display cancelled in order not to disturb whale spotted in the Thames

Benny the whale was first spotted in September

A fireworks display has been postponed in order to protect a whale that has been spotted in the River Thames.

The rare beluga whale was first spotted in on September 25^th near Gravesend in Kent, and has been dubbed ‘Benny’ by his growing fanbase.

Can't believe I'm writing this, no joke – BELUGA in the Thames off Coalhouse Fort @RareBirdAlertUK pic.twitter.com/6VtrJ1PVc6

— Dave A (@iPterodroma) September 25, 2018

The event was due to take place on the traditional date of November 5^th – but has now been now been put on hold as it would disturb Benny.

15,000 people had been expected to attend.

Gravesham Council have said the event will be rescheduled, and held after the whale has moved on from the Thames. The display will also apparently be themed around Benny.

Local residents have also been advised to “think twice about holding private firework displays” in order not to scare Benny.

“While we are very disappointed at having to postpone the fireworks, we understand the need to keep Benny safe, must take priority, said Council leader David Turner. “Every effort will be made to reschedule this hugely popular event, but a decision cannot be made now as no one knows how long Benny will remain in residence here.

“Keeping Benny safe has to be our priority while he visits us here in Gravesend, thousands of miles from his usual Arctic habitat. I’m sure everyone, while disappointed by this postponement of the fireworks, will understand.”