THE Headington Shark has provoked lively debate at an Oxford book store, 25 years after it was first added to the Oxford skyline.

The Great Shark Debate was held at Waterstone’s in Broad Street on Thursday night to mark the publication of The Hunting of the Shark by BBC presenter Bill Heine.

Mr Heine took part in the free debate at the store, together with other panellists including Richard Dick, former High Sheriff of Oxford.

Also having their say were former Oxford Mail editor Eddie Duller and Annie Sloan, who runs an interior design business from Cowley Road.

Mr Heine’s book tells the story of his battle with the authorities to keep the shark.

The radio presenter said: “Like all good art, the shark asks questions but does not give answers. It is as relevant today as when it was put up.

“The book is selling well in bookstores and some unusual places including the Old Bank hotel in High Street.

“I loved putting the book together because it gave me an opportunity to get an overview of everything that happened.

“I saw the support and encouragement some people gave me but I also saw what people in power had tried to do and found that so shocking I had to stop writing for about a month.”

The shark, created by sculptor John Buckley, was unveiled at Mr Heine’s house in New High Street on August 9, 1986, and is called Untitled 1986.

The Hunting of the Shark by Bill Heine is published by OxfordFolio, price £14.99.