Cumbrian zoo 'struggling to survive' hope to raise £10k

A zoo in South Cumbria says it's 'struggling to survive' during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.

Lakeland Wildlife Oasis Park, near Milnthorpe, is the home to more than 100 species - some of which are critically endangered.

The animal park has been battling to stay open for visitors by putting health and safety measures in place, but they were forced to close on Sunday due to increased government guidelines.

They need to find food for nearly 2000 animals, as well as afford heating for exotic animals and veterinary care, with no money from ticket sales coming in. In an attempt to help, some of the keepers have volunteered to have their wages cut.

Jack Williams, the manager of Lakeland Wildlife Oasis, said: "In all honesty, we are incredibly worried.

"We’re really fortunate that we’ve got an incredible team members here at the zoo who have volunteered to cut their wages so that money can go towards the animals - I’m doing that as well.

"They’re not just animals that are part of breeding programmes, or here for display, they’re family."

The registered charity has now set up a page to raise £10,000 to make sure they can continue to care for their stock.

There is more information on their Facebook page.