Endangered Twycross on public support: Zoo have been marvellous

'WE CANNOT WAIT TO WELCOME YOU BACK FOR A SAFE DAY OUT' AS STAGE SET FOR REOPENING ANNOUNCEMENT BY PRIME MINISTER

BUT CONSERVATION SOCIETY ADMITS FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL 'NOT OVER' IN THREE-MONTH ROLLERCOASTER RIDE

WORLD-FAMOUS Twycross Zoo today thanked thousands of adoring followers for their unwavering support as it signalled hope for the "start of recovery" from the edge of extinction.

The conservation society admitted the fight for survival "isn't over yet" as Boris Johnson is expected to announce later that zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas can reopen in England from next Monday in a further easing of lockdown restrictions.

The Prime Minister will update the nation on Wednesday as he tries to reopen the economy while minimising Covid-19's rate of transmission.

Twycross – the only animal conservation sanctuary in the UK housing the four great apes which are the closest living cousins to the human race – has made no secret of the fact it is "endangered species", pleading with the Government for grants to support large zoos after a change in the law saw it added to a list ordered to stay closed 'indefinitely' as lockdown continued to crush business sectors.

But after Nub News revealed the news this morning on the PM's forthcoming announcement, the zoo took to social media to thank the public for forcing the Government to listen.

It said: "We've been on a rollercoaster ride over the last few weeks, and because of you and your amazing support, we're expecting the Government to announce later today that zoos can reopen from June 15.

"However, our fight isn't over just yet, we still need the government to step in with vital financial support for large zoos.

"We will be continuing to work with other zoos by lobbying government, and we still ask that you contact your local MP and request they attend the debate on this issue in UK Parliament tomorrow."

The grateful zoo, which first opened its doors in 1963, added: "We really couldn't have done this without you all and we sincerely hope that this is the start of our recovery."

Nearly two-thirds of the staff are currently furloughed with monthly running costs of more than half a million pounds.

The zoo has repeatedly said it is "ready to re-open now" with Covid-19 secure' measures in place but until allowed it cannot survive indefinitely – even with an appeal campaign, launched in April, which has raised more than £100,000.

The zoo statement added: "We have been overwhelmed by every donation, membership purchase, and message of support over the last few months.

"Thank you from the whole team at Twycross Zoo.

"We can't wait to welcome you back for a safe day out."