August 8, 2011 12.04 pm This story is over 151 months old

Meerkats join Lincoln by the Sea

Meerkat fun: Kids and families at the city centre beach will be able to play with real meerkats on Tuesday.

Meerkats Nkofi and Mandisa are heading to Lincoln by the Sea in the City Square on Tuesday, August 9.

The furry creatures are owned by Rob and Susan Louth of Ruskington from www.reptilelife.co.uk, who take animals, reptiles and insects to events.

The pair is hoping they will wow all the families taking time out to enjoy some Summertime fun.

The African meerkats, Nkofi (which means “ruler”) and Mandisa (meaning “sweet”), will be taking shelter under a gazebo a few yards from the beach, but the pair will be wearing harnesses and leads and could be treated to a quick dig in the sand.

“They usually draw a great big crowd. People find them really fascinating and the growing interest in them has been helped by the appearance of meerkats in television advertisements,” said Rob Louth.

Lincoln by the Sea began on August 1 with its authentic seaside sand, stripey deck chairs and children’s roundabout.The event is organised by Lincoln BIG, with financial backing from the European Regional Development Fund.

Lincoln BIG events and promotions manager Michael Armstrong said: “The meerkats are the latest in a line of new attractions this year, along with a ‘beached’ pirate ship, a jolly pirate who launched our seaside venture, Punch & Judy Shows and exciting Water Zorbing – which will be on offer from August 11 to 15.

“Although the school holidays are still gathering momentum, there is every sign that Lincoln by the Sea will prove to be one of the county’s “hottest resorts” and that its popularity will create a boost in business for local cafes, shops and restaurants,” he added.

Source: Lincoln BIG | Photo: Erik K Veland