But as wildlife expert Glen Arscott explained to members of Skegness Ability Group, the animals to fear most are often the least expected.

Though slithering snakes and scuttling spiders inspire dread in many people, Glen joked the cute and cuddly meerkats were the most dangerous animals in his menagerie.

Group leader Sylvia Myers said: “It was strange to learn that all of these scary creatures were perfectly safe, and when he put the tarantula on my hand it was very calm.”

Around 30 youngsters had the chance to handle various creatures including pythons, giant stick insects and skunks when they attended Skegness Youth Centre on Briar Way last Wednesday.

Sylvia added: “The children loved it. They all queued up to handle the animals and found the whole experience very entertaining and educational.”

Whereas many of the youngest members, including eight-year-old Alex Collins, seemed fearless of the creatures, the older children and adults were a little less adventurous.

He also judged the group’s Halloween fancy dress competition, which was won by Damien Collins for his Mario Brothers costume and Sophie Clark-Lemaire for her Morticia Addams outfit.

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