A RENOWNED sculptor hit the shores of Harwich as work continued on a special art project

Marcus Vergette, the artist responsible for the design of the Time and Tide Bell project, visited the town on Tuesday.

Libby Scarfe, 46, of Harwich Seaside Explorers, is involved in the project, which is aimed at promoting climate change awareness in Harwich.

She said: “Marcus came to do some calculations for the structure and has helped us save a lot of money on the project.

“Getting a structural engineer would cost a lot of money so he came to inspect the site instead.

“He would like to change the design a bit, using wood instead of steel to be more environmentally friendly and keeping with the aesthetic of the coastline.”

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: Marcus Vergette working in HarwichMarcus Vergette working in Harwich

The Time and Tide Bell project needs to raise £10,000 to buy materials for its completion and Libby, in conjunction with other groups, has organised events to fundraise.

There was a donation pot at the Christmas Market and Libby hopes to hold an event at the Electric Palace, as well as applying for grants.

Libby hopes the bell will be finished in time for the Harwich Shanty Festival in October.