A much-loved wildlife park faces closing its gates for good after 40 years as its owners battle to save the business from mounting financial pressures.
Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park, Devon, made the announcement after several potential rescue deals fell through.
The park is home to a range of animals, including sea lions, leopards, wolves and monkeys.
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With closure a possibility, the owners have been contacting zoos and wildlife collections across the UK to find suitable new homes for the animals.
They said their animal care team was making sure each creature’s individual needs were considered and that any new home would provide long-term welfare.
The family-run attraction said it had held extremely encouraging discussions with potential buyers, investors and financial backers but had yet to secure its future, as reported by What’s The Jam.
The owners said: “For almost 40 years, the park has remained in our family’s hands, and to us, it’s never just been a business.
“It’s been our way of life.
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“Our children have worked alongside us, and many of the wonderful people who’ve worked here over the years have become part of our extended family.”
Following messages of support from visitors, the family launched an official appeal on Saturday, 31 October.
It raised more than £1,000 towards its £50,000 target within the first hour.
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The owners said the money would help cover essential costs while they continued trying to save the park and, if necessary, arrange the animals’ relocation.
Donations will go towards food and specialist diets, keeper wages, veterinary treatment, medication, heating, electricity and enclosure maintenance.
The family said moving the animals safely could take weeks or even months, meaning they would need continued care while suitable placements were arranged.
They stressed that donations would be used specifically for animal welfare and would not go towards repaying the park’s historical business debts.
The appeal states: “Our animals cannot simply be moved overnight.
“Your generosity will help give us the time and resources to make the right decisions for our animals without compromising their welfare.”
The owners have also appealed for businesses, organisations and individuals to consider offering substantial financial support, sponsorship, investment or a purchase opportunity.
They added: “Our greatest wish is to see Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park survive and continue welcoming families for generations to come.
“But whatever happens, the welfare of our animals must always come first.”
At the time of writing £9,945 had been raised.
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