Wild Planet Trust is looking to sell the two South West of England zoos it runs due to financial challenges.

It says is has already “received expressions of interest from across UK and Europe, though discussions remain at a very early stage” to take over Paignton Zoo in Devon and Newquay Zoo in Cornwall.

The Trust says that any sale “would need to preserve both sites as working zoos dedicated to conservation, education and animal welfare, while securing jobs and modernising facilities”.

It also assures visitors that the two zoos “remain fully open and welcoming visitors throughout the process”.

“We’re exploring all avenues to secure the future of both Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo for the next century and beyond,” said Wild Planet Trust interim chief executive Stephen Kings.

“Like many charities, we’ve faced rising costs and global challenges, and we’ve already made difficult but necessary internal changes. Now we’re looking at every option to ensure we don’t just survive, but flourish.”

The charity said, “it has been encouraged by an outpouring of community support and potential investors”.

Kings added: “There have been conversations with potential investors and interested parties, which is very encouraging. We are cautiously optimistic. But I have to emphasise that these are very, very early days.

“These zoos belong to the community – they always have. People are proud of both zoos, and the response we’ve received this past week has been truly humbling. It has only strengthened our resolve to find the right solution for the future.”

---