Chester Zoo thanks supporters after Government gives green light for it to reopen

The UK’s biggest zoo heaps praise on its fans for their support during the coronavirus pandemic after getting Government approval to welcome visitors again from next week
Chester Zoo is home to more than 35,000 animals, from more than 500 of the world’s rarest species
Reuters
David Child10 June 2020

Chester Zoo has thanked its supporters for helping the facility survive amid the Covid-19 crisis after it was given the green light by Government to re-open next week.

Posting on social media on Wednesday, the zoo said it "wanted to celebrate this huge moment of relief" with its fans after warning recently that it might have to close its doors for good if coronavirus lockdown restrictions weren't eased.

"A week ago we were in despair, not knowing when we would reopen, or if we could even survive much longer," the zoo's statement on Twitter said.

"BUT YOUR VOICES HAVE BEEN HEARD! We have JUST received the news that we’ll be able to open safely from 15 June."

It added: "Your support has been incredible. Every kind donation, every word of support. It really did make a HUGE difference.

"The fight isn’t over for us just yet. But, for now, we wanted to celebrate this huge moment of relief with you."

The zoo also said there was "no denying" it had suffered "financial damage over the past three months" and warned that its "road to recovery will be long and uncertain".

"But, your incredibly kind donations, animal adoptions and memberships have given us a vital lifeline," it added.

Last week, the zoo announced it had lost £5 million due to the coronavirus pandemic and said the business was "very much fighting for its future" amid the crisis.

It posted an impassioned plea on social media for donations from their regular visitors in a bid to recoup some of the shortfall in earnings.

The facility was then flooded with support, with a crowdfunding effort reeling in nearly £2.5m of donations.

The zoo closed in late March due to the UK's Covid-19 lockdown and has been working to reduce costs since, including using the government's furlough scheme.

But, as of Monday, it will be allowed to reopen after ministers approved plans for zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas to begin welcoming customers again from June 15 as part of the next phase of easing the lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will announce the move later on Wednesday while updating the nation on the next stage of officials' plan for exiting lockdown.

Chester Zoo meanwhile said it would update its supporters soon regarding how and when they will be able to return to the facility.

"Over the next few days we’ll be letting you know when and how you’ll be able to book a ticket to visit," it said.

"Please bear with us while we do this. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. You are SAVING OUR ZOO."

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