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Spike the talking cactus to continue comeback as Duthie Park arid house reopens

A famous attraction of Aberdeen’s Duthie Park will be in fine voice once more this weekend after vandals cut short its comeback.

Spike the talking cactus made a return to the arid house in the popular park’s David Welch Winter Gardens in August after an absence of more than 12 years.

Just weeks later, 16 windows in the arid house were damaged by vandals forcing its closure. Spike’s home has now been returned to its former glory following a programme of work to repair the damage and is open to the public again.

The talking cactus, which has a periscope eye, will take centre stage in the arid house on Saturday [22 October] and Sunday [23 October] from 12pm-4pm.

Aberdeen City Council facility manager Alan Findlay said: “The repair work was carried out quickly and efficiently so as to minimise disruption to visitors. It was a shame that we had to close the arid house during this time but this decision was taken in the interest of public safety. We hope that lots of people will come along to hear what Spike has to say and enjoy the countless other exotic plants on display.”

Spike was removed from the Winter Gardens in 1998. His comeback was marked at an open day hosted by the Friends of Duthie Park group.

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