Newquay Zoo makes dreams come true for youngsters
They've held a dream night for chronically ill or disabled young people
Newquay Zoo is making dreams come true for youngsters with life-threatening conditions.
They've hosted a Dream Night, and around 300 people attended.
Based on a similar initiative that's been running successfully in the Netherlands, it provides chronically ill and disabled children and their families an opportunity to enjoy exclusive access to the Zoo.
They've been hosted it for the last five years, inviting children from Little Harbour Children’s Hospice, Ellie’s Haven and Treliske’s Oncology Unit.
Devon and Cornwall Police, as well as the team from Clifton Villa Vets were in attendance, demonstrating what their work entails.
There was also music from the St Dennis Ukulele Club Band, mascots, performances from the Bounce Dance Troupe and food and drink.
An artist from Williams Caricatures was on hand to draw portraits and capture memories of the evening.
All participants gave their time free of charge to make the Dream Night an evening to remember.
Mike Downman, Newquay Zoo Team Leader of Animals, who organised the event, said: “We are so proud to be able to host this event here at Newquay Zoo. It means a lot to us to help create a special memories that children and their families will be able to cherish.”
Sophie Libby, Ellie’s Haven General Manager, said: "It was amazing to witness this night first hand all the hard work that Mike and his team had put in. It really was a magical night and seeing how happy the children were, made it even more special.”