Darwin celebrations under way

Shrewsbury's celebrations to commemorate Charles Darwin's 200th birthday next year was officially launched today.

The event, which is being hosted by Destination Shrewsbury, provided people with an opportunity to learn about the celebrations taking place next year to mark Darwin's birthday and the 150th anniversary of the publication of On The Origin of Species.

Speeches and presentations were due to be made by Councillor Charles Armstrong, the portfolio holder for Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council, the Deputy Mayor Councillor Alan Parkhurst, who was due to be unveiling a new short film of Darwin and Shrewsbury, and Jon King from Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council who was announcing the Darwin events planned for next year.

Many will feature guest speakers, including Johnny Ball and Adam Hart Davies.The launch was also expected to involve the unveiling of a suite of new promotional material which have been designed and created by Shropshire Tourism to encourage visitors to the town at the time of the Darwin celebrations.

Sarah Whittall, senior marketing officer at Shropshire Tourism, said: "The launch is an excellent opportunity for the invitees to see for themselves what is being planned.

"The town is very proud to be the birthplace and home of Charles Darwin and the launch will be the platform from which people can become part of the celebrations and learn about the Darwin-themed activities."