A popular Scots Zoo which struggled to keep going amid the coronavirus pandemic will reopen at the end of June.
The First Minister confirmed today the country will move to phase two of easing lockdown restrictions from tomorrow (Friday).
And with the news retail stores could reopen as of June 29 if they have outdoor entrances, Five Sisters Zoo in West Calder can start opening to the public again.
It's a welcome development for bosses, who were forced to issue an appeal for help from the public last month due to the lockdown.
Delighted staff took to the zoo's official Facebook page today to make the announcement.
A statement reads: "We are delighted to announce that the zoo will be reopening from Monday 29th June!
"It’s been a long road and our fight is not over yet but we wanted to celebrate this good news with you all. Thank you to everyone that has supported us through these last few months, we will be forever grateful.
"We cannot wait to finally reopen our doors and welcome you all back. From the bottom of our hearts - THANK YOU.
"We are currently in the process of setting up an online ticketing system, please bear with us while we do this. In the meantime keep an eye on our social media accounts and website over the coming days for further details."
As lockdown measures were introduced across the country in March, the zoo started to struggle financially and chiefs grew concerned for the future of the facility.
After urging the public to help keep them afloat by donating to a crowdfunder and purchasing garden items, the team have raised a staggering £71,500 so far.
You can donate to the fundraiser here.
See the plants and sundries on sale here or by contacting brian@fivesisterszoo.co.uk.
