Dame Judi calls on public to help zoo
DAME Judi Dench has urged people to support Twycross Zoo as it struggles to find the funds to stay open.
The James Bond star has called on supporters to back the zoo’s Summer of Survival campaign, to help the attraction recover from a three-month closure.
The zoo reopened at the start of June but with limited visitor numbers, and managers have said they will need government support to keep going.
Dame Judi, who has been involved in several wildlife projects, said: “After three months of closure with no income, but massive expenditure to feed and care for the animals, Twycross Zoo now faces a huge financial mountain to become successful once more.
“How ironic it would be if a charity dedicated to combating extinction should, itself, become extinct.
“I’m asking you now to get behind the zoo’s fund-raising campaign.
“Please help the zoo and its animals survive, so children and families can enjoy it for generations to come.
“Twycross Zoo may soon close its gates for the last time, putting many of its animals at risk. We simply cannot let this happen.
“For almost 60 years the zoo has meant so much to so many in so many different ways.
“It’s home to more species of monkey and ape than any other zoo on earth.
“It carries out conservation in the UK and all over the world.
“As one of the UK’s Science Zoos, it is important for science and education.”
Dr Sharon Redrobe, chief executive of Twycross Zoo, said: “Having the backing of Dame Judi Dench is fantastic and we thank her for her moving words and support.
“Here at Twycross Zoo we are facing the biggest crisis in our 57-year history and the prospect of permanently having to close our doors is very real.”
Dr Redrobe has warned zoos face having to carry out a “mass cull” of the animals if they cannot secure the needed funds.
She said: “It’s vital we have a successful summer in order for us to make it through the winter.
“Without having access to the government’s £100 million Zoo Fund and exhausting all other options, it will now take a community to save our zoo.
“Help us with our mission to protect endangered species and continue to make a significant contribution to the conservation of animals and our planet through education and research.
“These really are critical times, but we’re not giving in easily and this summer really is the Summer of Survival.
“We need everyone to join us in our fight.”
Dr Luke Evans, MP for Bosworth, said: “I continue to have regular meetings with officials and members of the government to reiterate the support Twycross Zoo, and all good zoos, con- tinue to need.
“This week I have had a meeting with Lord Goldsmith, the zoos minister, and civil servants to continue to push Twycross up the agenda, and what measures and support there are for the zoo sector.”
Twycross Zoo now faces a huge financial mountain to become a successful one once more
Dame Judi