Chester Zoo has thanked its fans for their support following the government's announcement that zoos and safari parks can reopen from next week.
Posting on social media, the zoo thanked followers for donations and offering support after the zoo warned that it might have to close its doors for good if lockdown wasn't eased soon - but added that 'the fight isn't over just yet'.
The statement read: "YOU DID IT! A week ago, we were in despair, not knowing when we would reopen, or if we could even survive much longer...
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"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.
"Over the next few days we'll be letting you know when and how you'll be able to book a ticket to visit. Please bear with us while we do this.
"From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. You are SAVING OUR ZOO."
Last week, the zoo announced it had lost £5 million due to the coronavirus pandemic and that unless the government allowed zoos to reopen the situation would only worsen.
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The zoo was flooded with support from the public, with a crowdfunder pulling in almost £2.5m.
Meanwhile supermarket chain Iceland adopted all the Humboldt zoo's penguins.
But now the government has announced that zoos can safely reopen from next week, with a Number 10 spokesperson saying: "People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike, but we know it is tough and where we can safely open up more attractions, and it is supported by the science, we will do so.
"This is by necessity a careful process, but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors, while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals."
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If you want to do your bit to help out Chester Zoo you can donate to their JustGiving page here or, you can text OURZOO to 70085 to donate £5.
Featured Image Credit: PA
Topics: UK News, Coronavirus, Animals