Fota announces record attendances for 2003

Fota Wildlife Park has announced record attendances as 301,300 visited the park during 2003.

The figures were released in Fota's annual report, confirming the park's highest ever attendance figure and representing a increase of 22% from 2001. It is also the first time visitor numbers broke the 300,000 barrier; rising from approximately 235,000 in 2001.

Dr Neil Stronach, Director of Fota Wildlife Park said: "The park achieved record results despite an ever-increasing level of competition from new and existing attractions.

"It is very gratifying for visitors to know that all income generated from entrance fees goes directly to the animals and to conservation."

Located 10 kilometres from Cork city, the park is built on 70 acres, and the grasslands allow for the wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, antelope and ostriches to run free in safe spaces.

The wide-open spaces also allow the public to enjoy face too face contact with the Park's residents, practically as if they were in the wild.