Coronavirus: Ringmer animal sanctuary losing £1,000 a day

The animal sanctuary in The Broyle has closed to the public in wake of the virus – known as COVID-19 – and it is unsure when it will be able to reopen.

Rachel Simm told the Express: “We closed to the public from Wednesday and we don’t know how long this will go on for.

“Now we are closed we are set to lose about £1,000 a day that would be made up from coffees, lunches and visitor donations.

“We are unsure when we can reopen – it could be as long as three months – but as you can imagine that is a massive loss.”

But she pledged the centre would continue to ensure that animals have the best care possible.

Measures have been taken to cover for staff who might fall ill and Raystede commits to full-time animal care, she said.

Rachel continued: “We are still rehoming. If you are facing a problem with an animal, then please do contact us.

“We are taking measures to ensure rehoming is as safe as we can make it ensuring people meet in big, open spaces and use hand sanitisers so there is no cross-contamination.

“Phone if you cannot care for your animal. We do not want anyone to do anything drastic.”

Although the financial shortfall will be big, Rachel pleaded with well-wishers: “If you’d usually buy a coffee for, say £3 on the way to work, or a cup of tea, or even stay at home when you’d go out for a pub lunch, then please think about donating that sum to us. You can do so online via our website.”