‘Crushing blow’ in fight to save Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park
Some of the park’s animals have already begun to leave for new homes as a potential investor bows out
Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park has issued a desperate plea for someone to step forward and save the much-loved attraction before it is too late, with time and money running out.
Hopes had been pinned on a potential investor after weeks of discussion but they have now decided not to proceed and the process of moving animals to new homes has already begun.
In a statement yesterday, the park owners described the latest turn as a “crushing blow” but said they had not given up yet and put out a plea for a potential buyer, investor or sponsor to come forward.
At the end of October, the park announced it faced closing its doors after 40 years unless a rescue solution could be found and a GoFundMe appeal was launched to urgently raise money to pay for animal feed, vet care and keepers’ wages in the meantime. So far the appeal has raised almost £21,000.
The statement yesterday said: “The harsh reality is that we are running out of money and we are running out of time.
“After weeks of positive discussions, the potential investor we had pinned so much hope on has now decided not to proceed. We genuinely believed we were finally getting closer to securing the park’s future, so this is a devastating setback for our family and our dedicated team.
“The heartbreaking process of moving our animals to new homes has already begun, with more moves planned over the coming days. Every departure is incredibly difficult, but we simply cannot afford to continue as we are. Their welfare must always come first.”
The park is owned by Dawn Gilbert and her husband Alan. It was set up by Dawn’s father Bob Butcher in 1985 in the grounds of Higher Leigh Manor just outside the village.
Yesterday’s plea was for a benefactor to step in and save the park, but also for ongoing support from the community, whether through donations, buying animal food and items on an Amazon wish list.
Locals were also urged to visit the park’s Dinosaurus Playzone over the coming weekend, which would help support the park.
The owners said: “After 40 years of hard work, sacrifice and dedication, watching everything we've built slowly slip away is almost impossible to put into words.
“We haven't given up, but we desperately need someone to step forward before it's too late. Whether through investment, partnership or a purchase, there is still a chance to save the park.
“In the meantime, the animals still here need feeding, keeping warm and caring for. The bills don't stop, and we desperately need your continued support.
“To everyone who has donated, helped or simply sent a kind message, thank you. Your support means more to us than you could ever imagine.”
If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe appeal, please go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-animals-of-combe-martin-wildlife-dinosaur-park