This morning I read a heart rendering article about Paignton Zoo, and how in a few weeks time they may have to start considering euthanising some of their animals. It costs around £414, 000 per month for the upkeep and running of the Zoo , and with no visitors through the gates they are now struggling. Even with the majority of staff furloughed to try and cut costs, there is still the very real possibility that some of the amazing creatures residing there may not survive the pandemic.

Inspired by the feat of Capt Tom Moore, in raising a fortune for NHS charities, I have decided to attempt to run 10 km every day during the month of May. While not as old as Capt Tom i am no spring chicken (56 in August)

The route used will vary as although i live in Kingsteignton and working from home most of the week. I also travel to work in Plymouth 2 days a week so the routes will be in the Torbay and Plymouth areas. I will record each days run on a running app and post the results each day. Also where possible i will announce the following days route in advance should anyone wish to support or provide encouragement (I’ll need it).

The amount needed to prevent such a tragedy is huge, and will require massive support from all of us. But if everyone who has ever visited the zoo donated just £1 it is achievable. Should support for this exceed the initial figure (and i hope it does), the additional funds will go to supporting in the first instance Dartmoor Zoo, and then other animal rescue charities who may be struggling with the closure of their charity shops.

If you wish to be able to take your children or grand children to visit such places in the future, we must act now to save them and the innocent animals we enjoy seeing. I hope that by reading this you feel it is a cause worth donating to and support it in any way you can. Please spread the word and share this with friends and family, and if you can donate it would be greatly appreciated.