Meerkat manor!

WARM WELCOME for the meerkat mob from Brian Hurst

AFTER weeks of adventure on the high seas and the open road, a hardy band of meerkats has arrived at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.

A 1,000-strong army of the cuddly creatures made the tough 10,500-mile journey from China to Royton to raise money for the charity.

The adventurous mammals should have arrived on our shores weeks ago — but missed the boat from China.

Determined not to let down anxious Oldhamers eagerly waiting their arrival, the meerkats embarked on a journey which saw them cross oceans and continents on a mission to reach their destination.

The travel-weary bunch were welcomed with open arms yesterday by appeals manager Brian Hurst. And after a few days in quarantine, he can finally send them to their new homes, which span the length and breadth of Oldham.

More than 700 of the furry fund-raisers have already been snapped up, in exchange for a £7.99 donation to hospice funds.

When all are gone their efforts will add £4,000 to hospice funds.

A hastily-arranged distribution ceremony set up for next week will see staff available to hand them over to their new owners. Apologising for the lengthy delay since the meerkats were first expected, Brian said: “It has been a long wait for them to arrive, but it has been worth it.

“I can’t tell you how many calls we have had from people waiting for them to come, and I’m pleased to say they have all arrived safely.”

Anyone who has ordered a meerkat can collect it from the Turf Lane hospice on Wednesday or Thursday, between 5 and 7pm. Those who can’t make it should call 0161-624 9984 to make alternative arrangements.


Anyone who hasn’t placed an order, but would like to pick one up, can do so after the bank holiday weekend by dropping in to the hospice or any of its charity shops in Market Street, Shaw, Royton precinct, or High Street, Lees.