A local aquarium is, like the Queen, celebrating a special anniversary – but this one comes with a plea for the future. 

The Lake District Coast Aquarium in Maryport opened its doors to the public for the first time in late May 1997 – 25 years ago. 

Since then they have been open every day except Christmas Days, Boxing Days and Covid lockdowns. 

Owner and founder Mark Vollers is celebrating the25 years but said, at 69, he would like to look at retiring sometime but he would like to see it in the right hands and continue to move forward. 

“On reflection, I am so pleased to be able to look back now and recognise that after all these years the aquarium is as popular a destination now as it was then in the late 90s. We now have parents who were not even born when we opened bringing their own toddlers! “ 

He said among the key factors helping the business succeed has been the invaluable support of Cumbrian residents, particularly appreciated during the quieter periods between school holidays, plus. 

He also paid tribute to: “ the loyalty of local people who make up the bulk of our employees.  And of course, it helps hugely to have as a core business live displays that will never go out of fashion if presented in the right way.  

“ The enduring appeal of seeing and learning more about natural history from viewing live animals has to be absolutely in step with people’s expectations and so this rightly includes. for aquarium staff. the need to ensure the best possible conditions for all livestock at all times. The public is ever on hand to judge whether we are getting this right.” 

To survive the next 25 years, the aquarium has to be forward-looking, dynamic and able to meet all the challenges both expected and unexpected. 

Mr Vollers said part of this forward planning has to now include a change of management and ownership. 

 “ Nothing would make me happier than to see this venture continue to thrive which it will do in the right hands. So there is a pretty unique opportunity here now for some enterprising people or person.” 

And as for this year, the Aquarium plans to celebrate its Silver Anniversary with some special events, starting during school holidays later this Summer.

The Aquarium displays continue to evolve with the recently completed Amazonian Piranha display, an influx of Mediterranean species flown in from Portugal, and a further development of a jellyfish display in the Sea Lab to incorporate their full life cycle.