Finaghy man turns ‘Zooperman’

David Capper as Zooperman gets set for his stay in the zoo.

There was great excitement in Belfast Zoo as they received a new arrival on Wednesday morning. Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice superhero ‘Zooperman’ has been moved into an enclosure for five days in a bid to raise vital funds for the charity.

Disguised as Finaghy civilian David Capper, Zooperman is rarely seen in public despite being a strong supporter of the children’s hospice.

Visitors to Belfast Zoo will have a chance to see this superhero up close in his natural habitat for the first time, until Sunday, August 11.

David is no stranger to being locked up for the hospice - a charity he is passionate about - as he took part in a fundraising jailbreak from Crumlin Road last year.

He explained: “That was no big hardship so we came up with the idea initially of going to Maghaberry Prison but that wasn’t going to work because of security so we approached the zoo and they jumped at it.”

He has set a fundraising target of £20,000 and hopes to hit that in the five days.

Prior to the superhero’s arrival, zoo staff prepared the enclosure with zoo curator, Julie Mansell explaining: “Belfast Zoo is home to 150 species of endangered and exotic animals but this is the first time that we have had a superhero staying with us!

“We wanted to recreate his natural habitat as much as possible in the enclosure so we added in his home comforts including blankets and chairs.

“As with all of our animals, we ensure that their enclosures provide enrichment to keep them busy and entertained. We have therefore provided some enrichment for Zooperman, including an art easel and swing ball set!”

Speaking about Zooperman’s challenge, Joanna Pawson, fundraising manager at Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, said: “Zooperman has been moved into the zoo while he tries to raise as much money as possible for Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.

“I’m appealing for the public to visit him in his enclosure and give him some support. As all donations go to the children’s hospice, every pound will make a real difference.”

Zooperman will be staying in enclosure 38 in Belfast Zoo until Sunday, August 11, in a bid to raise vital funds for children living with life-limiting illnesses.

To donate to Zooperman, visit him at Belfast Zoo, text ‘GIVE £5’ to 70444 or visit www.justgiving.com/zoopermanchallenge.