Two-foot-long midge causes a buzz

The giant midge will be on display on 30 November. Enlarge Image

A giant midge has been unveiled as a new feature of Inverness Museum and Art Gallery (IMAG) to help it mark the St Andrew's Day Open Doors programme.

The 2ft-long insect, designed by sculptor Anthony Bennett, will go on public display for the first time on Sunday.

Visitors will be invited to come up with a name for the new exhibit.

The midge will later be moved to IMAG's Discovery Centre, which is due to open early next year.

Mr Bennett's other work includes a giant bee and spider, a dragon, whippet and a life-size shorthorn cow.

Speaking as someone who reacts particularly badly to their bite, I for one will be pleased to see it at close quarters without any risk of their dreaded bites Bill Fernie Councillor

Catharine Niven, IMAG's senior curator, said staff were excited about the new addition to the collections.

She said: "Our midge will not bite, all the appropriate risk assessments have been made - and it fed recently before going on display.

"You wouldn't want to meet in on a loch but we are all thrilled that the midge has decided to come and visit."

Bill Fernie, chairman of Highland Council's education, culture and sport committee, said: "This is a good chance to get up close to an insect that can be a real pest without coming to harm.

"Speaking as someone who reacts particularly badly to their bite, I for one will be pleased to see it at close quarters without any risk of their dreaded bites."

During the open day, the museum is opening its doors for a free behind-the-scenes look at its collections and its stores.

There will also be the chance to learn more about the Seaforth Highlanders and life on the home front during World War II.