RAIN&SHINE

Lily the lion queenBelfast Zoo has announced the birth this summer of the first Barbary lion cub in Ireland. Lily is one of four Barbary lions at the zoo and one of 40 in captivity. The Barbary lion is extinct in the wild.

Lily weighed almost 1.5kg and was 37cm long at birth. She was rejected by her mother and has been reared by zookeeper Linda Frew, who looks after Lily in her family home. Staff say Lily has a "mischievous and playful streak". To prevent her becoming over-dependent on Frew, she has been introduced to Keeta, a Japanese akita dog. This is to ensure she develops animal traits - and not just those of her foster mother.

Brewing up a storm

An ale produced by a tiny Northern Irish brewery has been judged one of the 50 best beers in the world and is in the running to be named number one. The Whitewater Brewing Company in Kilkeel, Co Down, won the accolade from a judging panel at the prestigious International Beer Challenge 2007.

Clotworthy Dobbin Ale, the brewery's main product, is now in the running for the supreme champion award, to be announced in October.

Psst . . .

Dublin Zoo annual membership means unlimited access through the members' entrance. Family membership is €140 and single membership is €90. www.dublinzoo.ie

Seek out or avoid: share your holiday tip by e-mail: august@irish-times.ie

TODOTODAY:Surfers will be hoping for big waves at the International Surfing Blitz at Spanish Point, Co Clare, from today.

For more events listings see: www.ireland.com/theticket/summerevents