Chester Zoo has paid an emotional tribute to supporters after it was confirmed it can reopen from Monday.
Today, Prime Minister Boris Johnson will announce that zoos and safari parks will be allowed to reopen from June 15 as coronavirus lockdown measures are further eased.
Last month a list of places, including non-essential shops and services were told they would be allowed to reopen on that date, but this didn’t include zoos.
Having been under pressure from zoos, warning they face an exponential threat, today Mr Johnson will announce in a Downing Street press conference that they can reopen next week, in accordance with social distancing rules.
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In an emotional statement, Chester Zoo announced: “YOU DID IT! A week ago we were in despair, not knowing when we would reopen, or if we could even survive much longer… “BUT YOUR VOICES HAVE BEEN HEARD!
“We have JUST received the news that we’ll be able to open safely from 15 June.
“Your support has been incredible. Every kind donation, every word of support. It really is making a HUGE difference.
“The fight isn’t over for us just yet. But, for now, we want to celebrate this huge moment of relief with you.
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“There’s no denying that we have suffered severe financial damage over the past three months and the road to recovery will be long and uncertain. But, your incredibly kind donations, animal adoptions and memberships are giving us a vital lifeline.”
The zoo said they would announce details over the next few days about how people can book a ticket to visit.
The statement finished: “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. You are SAVING OUR ZOO”.
Last week, Chester Zoo announced it had crippling debts of £24m and needed £1.6m to prevent it from closing. In a brutally honest statement, it pleaded with supporters to help “Save our Zoo”, launching a campaign to raise funds.
Donations quickly flooded in and in one week the zoo has raised £2.4m.
Jamie Christon, Chester Zoo's chief operating officer said: "We've been overwhelmed by the response and the amount of people showing their support it's absolutely fantastic."
Today's announcement will also pave the way for Knowsley Safari Park to reopen from Monday. Mr Johnson will announce the easing of restrictions on outdoor attractions where people stay in their cars, including safari parks and drive in cinemas, because there is less risk of spreading coronavirus.
