Iceland supermarket has made a generous move to help a struggling zoo.
Last week, Chester Zoo announced it was facing huge debts (as much as £24 million by the end of 2020) as a result of coronavirus, and pleaded with the public to help with donations.
But an unlikely hero has come forward during the zoo’s time of need.
Supermarket chain Iceland has adopted the zoo’s entire rookery of Humboldt penguins, therefore alleviating some of the financial strain.
The frozen food retailer has also agreed to lobby the UK government on the zoo’s behalf, to amend legislation to allow zoos to reopen with strict social distancing guidance in place.
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This money from visitors will help the zoo get back on its feet, after its period of closure.
Richard Walker, managing director of Iceland Foods, said: ‘We were all saddened to hear of Chester Zoo’s recent struggles; it’s the heart of the local community in Chester and a much loved family favourite – I remember visiting the zoo as a child and my own kids love going there.
‘We’re proud to be able to lend them our support both through the adoption of the Humboldt penguins on behalf of our colleagues, and by lobbying in support of zoos being allowed to reopen soon.’
The adoption has caught the attention of people on social media, with many praising the retailer’s efforts to help the zoo.
One person tweeted: ‘Well done to Iceland we all need to support and save our zoos.’
While another said: ‘Iceland you are literally amazing.’
Chester Zoo’s Justgiving page has now surpassed the £2 million mark.
However, the zoo has said it needs around £1.5m a month to survive – so more will need to be done to save the attraction.
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