Zoo forced to close as thousands of monster hunters arrive for Pokemon Go party
Bristol Zoo reached its 2,000 capacity within 30 minutes of opening, causing it to close its doors and turn away hundreds of waiting gamers
A ZOO was forced to shut after thousands of gamers turned up for a Pokemon Go “lure” party.
Around 2,000 packed into Bristol Zoo within half an hour of opening as hundreds more were left queuing outside.
With the event at capacity they missed out on hunting virtual beasts among the real animals.
The party came as new safety concerns were raised about the game after hunters nearly walked into raging seas at a resort.
Fans paid £3 for Wednesday’s party, raising £6,000 for the zoo.
Dad Brian Samuels said: “The kids love it and I’m hooked too. There aren’t many Pokemon around where I live. It’s nice to see everyone get so excited at catching lots of new characters.”
Eddie Parsons, 17, arrived with college pals. He said: “We get quite competitive. A lot of people think its sad but it’s better than sitting at home on PlayStation.”
Critic Kitt Drew-Wilkinson said of the party: “How about appreciating the beauty of the real animals rather than catching virtual ones.” The zoo will hold another event for those who couldn’t get in.
Meanwhile a lifeboat crew was scrambled after three teens almost walked into rough seas as they hunted Pokemon. The girls eyeing the smartphone app ignored red flags near Hastings pier in East Sussex, at 9.30pm. Onlookers called cops who warned the trio away.
Steve Warne, of Hastings RNLI, said: “We were about to launch the lifeboat when police called and we were stood down.
“There have also been incidents of children getting too close to cliffs. They must remember to be safe.”
Tattooist Jamie Hawkes aims to ink 150 characters on 150 people to raise funds for an animal shelter in Newton Aycliffe, Durham.
Club staff at Trocaderos in South Shields are among his first clients.
Nintendo could miss out on millions of pounds after it delayed the launch of a Pokémon Go Plus wristband for another two months.
The £34.99 device, which vibrates and lights up when creatures are near, will go on sale in September, when the hype could be over.
— THE Sun’s Pokemon master POKEMATT is on the road in search of Britain’s best trainers. Email him at pokemon@the-sun.co.uk