A fundraising campaign has been launched by a popular North East animal attraction to save it from permanent closure due to the Covid-19 lockdown.
Northumberland Country Zoo, at Felton, near Morpeth, has overheads of £10,000-per-week and still needs its staff to come to work to care for its 400 animals.
But with no income from visitors as it was forced to close its doors during the coronavirus pandemic, the family-run, not-for-profit organisation now has a "time clock" above its head as to how long it can survive.
With no Government support yet available, Maxine Bradley, the zoo's curator, has set up a gofundme page and is encouraging anyone wishing to help to either donate, purchase online admission tickets, which are valid for two years, adopt an animal or buy an annual membership.
In a post on the attraction's Facebook page, Maxine said: "Our keepers are still here seven days a week looking after over 400 animals here at the zoo.
"Our overhead bills are approximately £10,000 per week. Unfortunately, there is no Government support available yet, which applies to us and we do not receive any support to pay our keepers.
"Furlough support does not apply to our keepers because they can't work from home. Without visitors and income, there is a time clock above our heads with how long we can last.
"We have set up a gofundme page if anyone is able to make a donation to help support the zoo during this time.
"Alternatively, if anyone knows anyone in the Government or in a higher position to help us and other UK zoos, who are all in the same situation, please, please get in touch with us.
"We want to still be here when this is all over. We want to continue to provide that vital connection between people in the North East and wildlife.
"We also want to continue our conservation projects and continue to educate and inspire children about our amazing animals."
The zoo was one of the fastest growing attractions in the North East of England and, in 2020.
The zoo has also launched its #BringtheZootoYou YouTube channel, helping people in lockdown to keep in touch with the animals and weekly goings on.
To help or donate, visit www.northumberlandzoo.co.uk.
