Owl sanctuary boss 'not worried' about site's sale

An animal charity said it was not at risk of closure despite the business that runs the site where it is based going into administration.

It was announced on Monday that Stonham Barns Holiday Park in Suffolk had called in administrators due to financial pressures and was being put up for sale.

The announcement raised questions about the future of the complex's leisure and retail facilities, including the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary.

But the animal centre's managing director Matthew Jeffery said he was "not worried" and it was "business as usual" for the charity.

"It was sad news and I'm sure it's impacting the local community, but we are very much just moving forward," he said.

"We have a good relationship with the landlord and obviously we are sad to hear that this is the situation for them, but we are an independent tenant.

"Our work is so important and I think that will always continue, so our focus is very much on our work and enhancing that over the coming years."

The sanctuary, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, attracts more than 20,000 visitors annually and rescued more than 100 owls last year.

It also helps other creatures, including meerkats, vultures and armadillos, and stages educational displays.

Sanctuary manager Emily Quantrill said she was saddened to hear about the holiday park's struggles but did not believe it would have a negative effect on the charity.

"We were obviously concerned for the site as a whole, but we weren't massively concerned about us as a zoological collection," she said.

"In terms of the sanctuary, our animals and the care that they receive, and our visitors, it doesn't impact that in any way."

The site is also currently home to several small independent shops.

But administrators FRP Advisory confirmed it was only the holiday park part of Stonham Barns that had been put into administration.

It said the complex was actively being marketed for sale, with the "aim of securing its future" and it welcomed interest from prospective bidders.

"Obviously, we would very much like to remain where we are and grow, but if any bridges come that we need to cross, obviously we'll do so," said Jeffery.

"We are a very strong charity, and we are just focused on keeping going as we are and putting our growth plans in place, which are really exciting."

FRP Advisory added it was "focused on continuing to trade at the site while seeking a buyer", that new holiday bookings would be taken and all existing bookings honoured.

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