Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford has been forced to close after a fire broke out on Monday, August 3, with firefighters on the scene. The zoo, which is ranked second on TripAdvisor's list of the best zoos in England, confirmed that no animals or staff members have been harmed.
A spokesperson said the site will remain closed as firefighters remain on site. In a statement, the zoo said: "ZOO CLOSED TODAY. Due to a fire at the zoo, we are CLOSED TODAY - Monday, August 3. The fire brigade are currently on site and dealing with the situation. The fire is currently isolated to an area with no animals but our teams are dedicated to ensuring that all of our animals and team members remain safe and well. We are therefore closed to the public today. Thank you for your understanding. We will provide a further update as soon as we can. Anybody with tickets or an experience booked for today, will be contacted to rearrange. Thank you for your understanding."
Concern from visitors
On social media, visitors posted messages such as "I hope the animals are safe." One person commented: "Oh gosh, how scary praying you and all the animals stay safe." Another added: "Hoping everyone is all ok and hoping the smoke isn't affecting the animals. Everywhere is so dry right now so hoping they can contain it and get it out as soon as possible."
The zoo said anyone with tickets or an experience booked for the day will be contacted to rearrange the visit.
