SOARING temperatures marked the final day of preparations for Nottingham Riviera – and the hottest day of the year so far.
As the mercury hit 30C yesterday, additions to the beach in Old Market Square included canoes, mechanical pony rides and a children's car ride.
While workers brushed down the 250 tonnes of sand, filled the pool and assembled deckchairs, families welcomed the return of the beach to the heart of the city – the most landlocked in the country.
Tanya Hibbs, of Basford, said the beach was all about providing parents with a fun and cheap way of keeping their kids happy over summer .
"It's something different," said the 42-year-old. "I think it's important for families, and especially one-parent families, to have somewhere fun to take their kids that doesn't cost an arm and a leg.
"It's going to be packed for the opening," said Bec Amos, 39, of Sandiacre. "It's become a part of Nottingham now and we expect it every year. I meet friends in town and we don't usually come into the square, but when the beach is on we do. And it seems to get better each year."
There are additions to go with the dodgems, paddling pool, stalls and arcades.
"It could do with offering a healthy-eating option," said mum-to-be Kerri Woodward, 22, from The Meadows.
"I'm happy they've got mocktails so people who don't want to drink can feel involved but the only eating options are burgers and chips. They could really make it exotic by selling something like watermelon."
But seafood fans can sample whelks, cockles, mussels and crabs from local fishmonger Lee Wharton, who has a stand at the beach.
Experience Nottinghamshire's PR manager Erin Huckle said the beach brought residents into the city and attracted tourists. She said: "The timing of the opening couldn't be better with the weather we are having. People don't have to travel to Skegness to see the beach and it gives families a tremendous low-cost option. It will attract people into the city which will have a knock-on effect on other tourist attractions."
Nick Vass, of organiser the Mellors Group, said Nottingham was the best possible setting for an urban beach.
He said: We've made a few changes to focus more on aesthetics. The sand's better quality and there are a few new additions for the kids to enjoy."
