10 hours ago
Much-loved Essex animal sanctuary closes to visitors amid urgent repairs
A POPULAR animal sanctuary in Brentwood has announced that it will be closing to visitors after decades of welcoming the public.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary and Visitor Centre has made the decision to close after staff found repairs and maintenance works that need attention to ensure the health and safety of visitors.
The much-loved animal sanctuary is home to more than 100 species of animals and plans to reopen to visitors once the maintenance issues are resolved.
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In a statement, Hopefield Animal Sanctuary said: 'Due to urgent and unavoidable repair and maintenance works that need addressing immediately, we have had to take the regrettable decision to close the sanctuary to visitors until further notice.
'We apologise for any upset or disappointment this may cause, but health and safety are our priority for visitors and residents alike.
'As soon as we are able to do so we will, of course, welcome you all back.'
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary was founded 30 years ago by Paula and Ernie Clark.
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The sanctuary provides space for rescued farm animals and pets that have found themselves without a home as well as some wild animals.
Due to the maintenance issues, the sanctuary has also confirmed the cancellation of the upcoming Hopefield Hoedown.
'This decision has not been taken lightly, and we're devastated to have to do this but we also have to cancel our upcoming Hopefield Hoedown. A full refund will be given to those who have booked,' the statement read.
