Trust that runs Newquay Zoo to donate chunk of profits to sites in Ukraine
The Wild Planet Trust has unveiled a yellow and blue gorilla ahead of this weekend's appeal
Last updated 18th Mar 2022
The Wild Planet Trust - which runs Paignton and Newquay Zoos - is fundraising this weekend to support zoos in Ukraine.
The Wild Planet Trust says keepers in the country have been killed while doing their jobs.
Now bosses have announced a weekend of fundraising, with all the profits from their shops and restaurants being collected for sites in Ukraine.
The trust has also unveiled a special gorilla in the colours of Ukraine to highlight the appeal.
"We stand with the people of Ukraine"
"We stand with the people of Ukraine, with our many colleagues and friends in the country and with the animals in their care", said Dennis Flynn, CEO of Wild Planet Trust.
"It’s easy to feel helpless when watching the news and it’s difficult to know how best to help the rapidly escalating situation in Ukraine.
"We believe that we can show support and take action to help our zoo colleagues through these deeply distressing times and hope that our visitors this weekend will join us with this.
"As a conservation charity, we deal in hope; and now, more than ever, we need to be hopeful.
"This weekend (19 and 20 March) Paignton and Newquay Zoos will be accepting donations to support colleagues in Ukrainian Zoos.
"100% of profits made on this weekend from their shops and restaurants will go directly into this fund, as well as 50% of the income from ticket sales.
"Visitors will also have the option to donate an additional amount when they purchase their tickets and collection tins will be located at till points."
Click here for more details from the Wild Planet Trust