A farm in Exeter has closed 'indefinitely' after an avian flu outbreak led to the culling of all its birds. Moonridge Farm made the heartbreaking announcement on Facebook last week.
In a statement on their social media, a spokesperson for the farm said they were unsure when - or if - they would be able to trade as a poultry farm again sparking an emotional response from friends of the business. The post received more than 400 comments, which consisted of love and support for the business, reports Devon Live.
It comes after World of Country Life (WoCL) attraction had to close its doors last week due to the farm's avian flu outbreak, where WoCL received some birds from. A fundraiser has been set up to support the owners of Moonridge Farm, which so far has raised an incredible £1,600 - way over it's initial target of £500.
Read more: Popular family-run village pub near Bristol put on the market
In a statement on Facebook (April 11) a farn spokesperson wrote: "We have now closed Moon Ridge Farm for trade as we have unfortunately had avian flu so all our birds have been culled. We are not sure when we will be able to trade as a poultry farm again and if we will.
"We are currently dealing with DEFRA which takes a lot of patience time and energy. We are obviously devastated and we are going to take some time out to decide our next move.
"We just like to thank all of our customers and suppliers for their support and good wishes. This is not the end of Moon Ridge so do keep an eye on our page. ( photo prior to house being built) Thank you".
A statement on the GoFundMe page reads: "We have now closed Moon Ridge Farm for trade as we have unfortunately had avian flu so all our birds have been culled Truly devastating as we started this business from nothing, no land, no premises not even a real home as we were in tied accommodation. Merv has put his heart and soul and his life since 2000 into making this business what it is. It’s all Will and Meg have known and since 2004 been my work life too."
If you would like to donate to the fundraiser click here.
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