Victoria Centre's Jerry's Fish Tank - Calls for return of Nottingham feature that captured hearts

For years, Nottingham shoppers gathered around the Victoria Centre's iconic fish tank – a beloved meeting spot that holds cherished memories

People are calling for the return of another Victoria Centre landmark after bosses confirmed the much-loved Emmet Clock will return to its original home in the heart of the centre.

A fish tank - Jerry's fish tank, to use its "proper name", was once positioned on the shopping centre's upper floor, adding vibrancy to the space and delighting youngsters as they walked past.

It had a functional role as well. "Meet me by the fish tank" proved far simpler than attempting to spot your friends amongst the crowds.

The initial fish were all rescued, according to the centre's manager back in 1998. You may recall some of them - particularly the seven enormous pacu fish, which can reach lengths of up to 1.1m.

The presence of these large fish in the aquarium initially sparked controversy, with residents writing to the Post expressing concerns they weren't appropriate for captivity.

They were relocated to the London Aquarium before reaching full size, with their transfer even being televised, though they remained a striking presence during their "teenagers" phase.

Shopping centre bosses said the much-loved Emett Clock will be returning to its original home in the heart of Victoria Centre.

In a move that will delight generations of shoppers, the iconic clock will be relocated to the part of the shopping centre where so many people remember it, outside John Lewis, marking a major moment in the landmark’s history.

For decades, the Emett Clock, much like Jerry's fish tank, has held a special place in the hearts of Nottingham people.

More than just a clock, it became a meeting place, a city centre landmark and an unmistakable part of a visit to Victoria Centre.

But after a major restoration, the clock, known as the aqua horological tintinnabulater, was positioned at the north end of the upper floor in 2015.

Now, following years of calls to see it returned to its former home and an extensive programme of restoration, that wait is almost over.

And the move has prompted people to call for the return of the fish tank too.

Posting on Nottingham Post's Facebook page, Janice Smith said: "Great news know bring Jerry's fish tank back."

Jun Cartier said: "It’s about time. Bring the fish tank back too."

Countless memories were created beneath the aquarium's blue illumination. People had a lively discussion about the fish tank on Reddit.

User andtemp recalled "When my daughter was a toddler she would want go to see the "Mazins", as she called them...because they were amazing."

littlebuttrkitten commented: "I feel like this was there only a couple of years ago! Or am I just getting old and losing all sense of time?". Can you relate?

AnnieCorleone shared: "Yes! Did anyone else feel like they had a special bond with one of the fish, too? Lol. For me it was that absolutely massive one. I thought he was "Jerry" and I used to press my face up against the glass to talk to him."

Among the memorable aquatic residents were the striking white duo Bonnie and Clyde, alongside their companions, the enormous gouramy fish. These were the final members of the original collection to depart in 2001.

Speculation about additional fish tanks concealed within the Victoria Centre proved accurate. A "fish house" existed for use during maintenance and cleaning of the main aquarium, and according to a staff member interviewed in 2002, approximately 200 fish were cared for at the site.

The heartbreaking announcement arrived at the close of 2009 - the fish were being relocated, as the tank had reached the end of its operational lifespan. Thousands rallied behind the "Bring Back Jerry's Fish Tank" Facebook campaign, demonstrating how integral the attraction had become to the shopping centre in just over 10 years.

However, it was not meant to be, and the Victoria Centre's aquatic inhabitants were rehomed at Bristol Zoo. The shopping centre now feels somewhat less vibrant without them.