West Midland Safari Park 'breathing sigh of relief' as staff prepare to reopen
Staff at West Midland Safari Park are 'breathing a sigh of relief' as they get ready to reopen the after the second national lockdown.
The Bewdley-based attraction will initially only open its four-mile drive-through safari from Saturday on selected dates – before opening up the walk-through areas later this month.
All the existing safety measures that were in place over the summer months will remain in place to ensure staff and guest safety.
Due to strict social distancing measures, West Midland Safari Park cancelled its Santa Safari events, but bosses are hoping to still being a little festive cheer to those who visit throughout December.
Chris Kelly, the park's managing director, said: "We are breathing a sigh of relief here as we can reopen again and celebrate the festive season with our guests. It is going to be a difficult winter for us, especially as we are unable to offer our popular Christmas experience.
"It’s been a really challenging year and this is not the end of 2020 we were hoping for, but we will make the best of it.
“We had a huge amount of support from the public over the summer and we implore them to do the same this December.
"We can’t do this without them, and besides, we love seeing families and friends enjoying themselves here. It’s the heart and soul of the park.
“Our baby Indian rhino, Inesh, who was born in September is doing really well and we can’t wait for guests to see him out on safari. He is such a joy to watch with his mum Seto.
"All the other animals and our staff are looking forward to welcoming our guests back.”
The drive-through safari is open on December 5 and 6, and then from Wednesday, December 9, to Friday, December 11. Further opening dates will be announced shortly.
The walk-through areas, including the Land of the Living Dinosaurs, will reopen between December 12 and December 23.
Tickets, which must be booked in advance, are on sale by visiting www.wmsp.co.uk.
