The Department of Community, Culture and Leisure is delighted to announce that the Curraghs Wildlife Park, Ballaugh has recorded its best ever visitor figures for the month of October. Figures are up 7.5% on the previous best for October and a huge 36% increase on the attendance figures for last year. Hon David Cretney MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure, commented “I’m delighted with the success the Wildlife Park has enjoyed this summer, particularly the improvement in visitor numbers. The good weather has helped and the introduction of new attractions and exhibits, especially the Meerkats and their family, has been greatly appealing to visitors.” Three adult Meerkats arrived at the Curraghs Wildlife Park in May 2010 and their first offspring emerged on public view in early October. General Manager of the Wildlife Park, Nick Pinder, said; “We’re very pleased with the increase in visitor numbers, not only for October but the year as a whole, which to date is 6% up on last year. With the extra attractions we’re proposing to put in place this winter, we’re hopeful that the success enjoyed by the Wildlife Park will continue. The Park is an important attraction for residents and visitors to our Island alike, giving them the chance to see animals up close and providing them with the opportunity to learn about the natural world, global and local wildlife conservation issues.” The Curraghs Wildlife Park, Ballaugh is now operating on winter hours, open to the public every week on Saturdays and Sundays from 10.00am and daily during school holidays. For more information about the Curraghs Wildlife Park visit www.gov.im/wildlife or join the Facebook page “Curraghs Wildlife Park”. - ENDS -