Bristol Active Gorilla Hunt
My search for new experiences can sometimes take a wayward turn. I was recently asked to join a gorilla hunt. I was aghast I assure you (please read on PETA)! The invite came through from the Bristol Active social group and referred to the lifesize statues that featured throughout Bristol this summer. Ah, what a relief, no giant gorilla tranquilisers required!
The statues were commissioned to mark the 175th anniversary of Bristol Zoo Gardens, all 61 were dotted throughout Bristol and beyond, each one decorated by it's own assigned artist.
I met the group at a pub in the centre where we introduced ourselves over a pint before breaking off into separate teams. The hunt involved a mission to find as many of the blighters as we could in 90 minutes. Off we went armed with a quiz full of 30 questions relevant to each gorilla within a couple of miles of the city - just to prove we did see them and not just stayed in the pub googling images! The hunt took us on a circular route through Bristol city. While meandering through the streets picking out our favourites we got to know one another a little.
The group is made of a mixed bunch of over 30s, all joined in their common appreciation for socialising. I learned that they put a great deal of organisation into their get togethers, for example the Royal Wedding celebrations took them on a crawl to each royal themed pub! They also get involved with sporty things, cinema and country walks, so a bit of something for everyone.
Anyway back to the gorillas, our hunt ended with a prize-giving and celebratory beer at a city centre pub. Incidentally, my favourites were the pirate one dominating King Street and the intricately painted fella in Millenium Square which was packed full of historical and (literally) colourful facts. It was a fab little evening walk through the city. Sadly the gorillas have been moved and, as I write this, are preparing themselves for auction but you can see them one last time altogether at Bristol Zoo Gardens - check the link below for more info!
http://www.bristolactive.org.uk/
http://www.bristolzoo.org.uk/wow-gorillas
Images: Sinéad Millea
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