A GIANT Silverback gorilla couple now sport matching face masks in the seafront attraction, writes Ted Hynds.

The hefty £20,000 lifelike fibreglass models also carry health warnings.

‘We are on a busy road and wanted to emphasise the necessity of wearing face masks to passing traffic,’ said owner Robert Phipps.

He added: ‘It also give support to the local firm which makes the masks.’

Two years ago the male gorilla found national fame when a neighbour accused him of being a ‘peeping kong’ by staring at her flat.

Robert addressed her complaint by  turning the gorilla around – so she now views his bare bottom.

Robert added: ‘The timing was perfect to remind people that masks will be compulsory from next week.

‘But staff at cafes beside the course will be wearing visors instead.

‘The heat from the fryers and ice creams machines would make wearing masks unbearable.

‘And with a visor there won’t be any problem conversing with the public.’