The Curraghs Wildlife Park and Crossroads Caring for Carers want to say a big thank you to everyone who supported the Hop Tu Naa event held at the Wildlife Park on Saturday 29 October. Over 500 visitors came along to enjoy the special event held to celebrate Hop Tu Naa and co-ordinated jointly by the Curraghs Wildlife Park and Crossroads Caring for Carers charity. Despite persistent heavy rain, the event was considered to be a great success with more than ?1,000 being raised for the charity. Alex Wilson, Crossroads Caring for Carers Fundraising Events Co-ordinator, said: ‘The Park came to life with ghosts, ghouls and zombies. Children, many of whom donned their best fancy dress, enjoyed lantern making, turnip carving and hunting for 10 elusive pumpkins in a trick or treat treasure hunt. The wet and windy weather did not dampen anyone’s spirits and I would like to thank everyone involved in making the day a huge success and such fun; we hope to be back for Hop Tu Naa next year with even spookier goings on at the Wildlife Park! ‘People who travelled to the park by bus also commented that the journey was a highlight thanks to the spooky decorations put on buses by Crossroads volunteers.’ She added: ‘The funds raised will be spent directly by Crossroads’ providing meaningful respite for those caring for someone with an illness, disability, frailty, substance abuse or mental health issue.’ Tina Jauncey, Park Duty Manager, said: ‘We were delighted with the special activities put on by Crossroads Caring for Carers; it gave the park a marvellous, spooky atmosphere. Their volunteers really drew in the crowds despite the weather and it is definitely something to build on for next year.’ The Crossroads Caring for Carers organisers would like to express their thanks to everyone who took part and assisted, including Robinsons, Agrimark and Davison’s for supplying stock, volunteers from Pokerstars for assisting on the day, Ian Dennett and the Lakeside Cafe for supplying the bike and a cake to raffle, also to the Department for facilitating the event and Energy FM for their support. Winner of the mountain bike, kindly donated by Ian Dennett of the Lakeside Cafe, was pre-schooler Amelia Bland from Douglas. Crossroads’ forthcoming events include a Fashion Show at the Villa Arcade on Saturday 26 November and Christmas Market in the Strand Shopping Centre throughout November and December. Tickets for the Fashion Show can be purchased from the Villa Gaiety Box Office on 600555 or visit www.villagaiety.com The Curraghs Wildlife Park is now operating winter hours and is open weekends from 10am to 4pm until the school Christmas holidays when it will open daily between 10am - 4pm except 24-26 December inclusive and 1 January. ENDS