Erskine animal shelter saved from closure after online appeal raises £40k
After 47 years of rehoming animals, Lamont Farm Project almost had to close its doors due to spiralling costs and low visitor numbers
After 47 years of rehoming animals - a charity farm in Erskine which was facing closure has been saved after an online appeal.
People have donated more than £40,000 to Lamont Farm Project after visitors numbers dipped and costs spiralled.
The volunteer-based animal shelter supports a wide variety of animals, including ducks, small furries, horses, llamas, pigs, sheep and goats, which would've had to have been taken in elsewhere if the charity were to close.
Bosses say the farm had been experiencing a downturn when the farm was also struck by vandalism - someone spray painted swear words on the walls leaving volunteers feeling lower than ever.
The graffiti, combined with rocketing feed, supply and veterinary costs and dwindling visitor numbers meant chair Trisha Craig wondered if the project should "quietly slip away", feeling that "Erskine had outgrown" the charity.
However, a GoFundMe page started by supported racked up £42,000 for the shelter, in just over a week after it went live on December 28 2023.
The funds mean the farm can look forward to celebrating it's 50th birthday in the years to come, instead of worrying if it'll make it through the winter.
'Every penny means the world to us'
Trisha told Clyde 1 News: "Before Covid, it was £6.50 for pony nuts and now it's £11.50.
"We've got a donkey with wonky teeth who's on a specialised diet costing £50 every 10 days - everything is just getting higher and higher in price.
"I think the vandalism then made us feel like it was time to finish up.
"But with the fundraiser, it's just absolutely phenomenal.
"I don't have the words to express how grateful I am - it's a huge weight off.
"After the appeal launched, that was the first night I had a proper sleep without waking up in fear.
"I would like to say a massive thank you for everyone who donated, even if it was just one or two pounds. Every penny means the world to us."