Animal parks help out local hospital by donating face masks

As a gesture of support and thanks to the incredible work provided by the NHS staff, 2000 hospital masks have been donated to the William Harvey hospital in Ashford, Kent, on behalf of the animal departments of local wildlife parks Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, and Howletts Wild Animal Park.

As soon as the animal departments were made aware there was a shortage of equipment for NHS staff, they wanted to help in any way possible.

Simon Jeffery, Animal Director at Port Lympne, said “We are lucky enough to have some spare masks in stock and thought of the important work the NHS are doing. We hope this donation helps nurses and doctors on the frontline in our community.”

In terms of looking after their own staff, both parks have ensured that all animal teams have been instructed to practise self-distance, extra cleaning and staggered lunch breaks. All keepers have also been provided with thermometers, where temperature checks are performed for all animal teams.