Five Sisters Zoo appeals for donations to save park from closure after lockdown

The zoo has so far raised £30,000.

Five Sisters Zoo has launched an appeal to save the park from closure as a result of the coronavirus lockdown.

A JustGiving page set up with a target of £100,000 has so far reached £30,400.

The West Lothian zoo is also selling plants, animal adoptions, sponsorship and at home education packs.

A new series of video talks given by keepers will be shared on the zoo’s social media pages, along with pictures of the animals in isolation.

“Please help us save the zoo, unfortunately due to the COVID-19 pandemic we have had to close our doors to the public for the first time since our tragic fire back in 2013,” the zoo announced on the fundraising page.

“We are calling all our visitors and supporters to help us during this difficult time and to help ensure our doors reopen.

“With essential overheads of over £35,000 per month (excluding wages) with next to no income, we are trying our best to keep going.

“However we are struggling, so any donations large or small will help, although we do realise people will have other priorities and their own difficulties at this time. Thank you to everyone that has donated so far, your generosity is greatly appreciated.

“After a very long wet winter we were looking forward to springtime, normally our busiest time of the year but this year we do not know what lies ahead for us. We just hope we can welcome you back to the zoo when this is over.”