Shoppers will be able to roll up their trouser legs, tie a handkerchief around the head and enjoy a day on the beach in Northampton’s Market Square next week.
From Tuesday, an area of the Market Square will be covered in sand and transformed into a beach, allowing children to play in the sun while parents relax on a deck chair.
The idea, which follows a similar event last year, is being backed by the Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), which is hopeful the proposal will bring more people into the town.
The beach will be in the town centre until the end of the month.
BID chairman Sue Roberts said: “The weather we’ve been enjoying this year has been amazing and there’s nothing like enjoying a day out at the beach when the sun’s shining.
“We’re a long way from the seaside in Northampton so we thought if we can’t get people to the beach, we’ll bring the beach to the people.
“It’s a great chance for families to spend time together, build sandcastles, have an ice cream and enjoy themselves.
“We hope it will bring lots of people into the town centre and see some of the fantastic retailers we have.”
The beach is being managed by a third-party company and will be free to all members of the public, families and shoppers. It will be open from 10.30am to 5.30pm every day, weather permitting.
Councillor David Mackintosh, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “We’ve had a great summer of events in Northampton so far and now thanks to Northampton Town Centre BID, the beach on the Market Square will provide great free entertainment for children and give their parents the opportunity to spend some time in the town.”
Free parking will also be available in the Mayorhold, St Michael’s and St John’s car parks for two hours on weekdays and all day on Saturdays throughout August.