Skegness, an affectionate coastal town in Lincolnshire, may spend its summer without its renowned Jolly Fisherman mascot due to a lack of volunteers. The endeared mascot, famous for his non-stop jovial embrace, is typically present to welcome holidaymakers during the busy summer season. Former mayor and sometimes mascot carer, Steve Kirk, has appealed to locals to keep this tradition alive by volunteering to don the costume.
Kirk underscored the significance of the role, noting the ideal candidate must enjoy engaging with the public, as they will receive constant hugs as the Jolly Fisherman. He expressed regret at the potential absence of the mascot, acknowledging the demands on potential volunteers’ time. He implored Skegness locals to lend a few hours of their time, asserting, “The more volunteers we have, the easier the task becomes.”
The loveable Jolly Fisherman was born in 1908 as an invention of artist John Hassall, commissioned by the Great Northern Railway to attract visitors to Skegness. Today, the Fisherman is immortalised in both memorabilia and a statue that stands true outside the local railway station. The role of the minders, acting as the mascot’s sight and sound, is crucial for maintaining the character’s presence at events.
Local fish and chip shop proprietor, Andrew Epton, portrayed the Jolly Fisherman as the town’s “emblematic figurehead,” recognised globally. Epton expressed concern at the prospect of an absent mascot this year, stating his hope that “someone volunteers because it is a joyous role.”
Skegness Town Council has acknowledged the challenges in finding volunteers but remains proactive in ensuring the return of the Jolly Fisherman without being entirely dependent on volunteer efforts. The council retains a positive outlook, indicating there is no doubt the Jolly Fisherman will return in the foreseeable future.
This article was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
