Jamie Christon: Last News

Attractions up and down the country have had to close its doors for weeks now and there's no current sign of when they will reopen.

can once again step through the gates next week.

safari parks and zoos can reopen from next week.The move follows a cry for help from the zoo, which last week put out a plea to the public to support its fundraising campaign saying it was fighting for its future amid spiralling debts brought on by the enforced closure.The attraction had already outlined its plans for reopening before being told it had to stay closed indefinitely.Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletterYou can sign up very simply by following the instructions hereBut the Prime Minister's announcement, expected later today, has now given fresh hope.Jamie Christon, chief operating officer at Chester Zoo, said: “A week ago we were in despair, not knowing when we

issued a plea to the public earlier this week, revealing that they are facing debts of £24m by the end of the year due to the coronavirus pandemic.With more than 35,000 animals to take care of, bosses say the lack of admissions have left them 'fighting' for their future.Jamie Christon, Chester Zoo's Chief Operating Officer told the M.E.N in April that around 97% of the zoo's funding comes from visitors walking through the gates - something which hasn't happened since the country went into lockdown in March.It is estimated that it costs around £465,000 a month simply to look after the animals and plants of Chester Zoo.But now in a matter of days, the zoo has raised more than £2m with support from more than 100,000 people.Writing an update on

Almost £2million has been raised in two days to help crisis-hit Chester Zoo.

One of the UK's largest zoos is "at risk of extinction" after losing millions of pounds as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.