THE MAMMOTH task of moving up to 1,700 animals to a new home in Teesdale is nearly complete.

More than 100 different types of animals from rare pygmy donkeys to meerkats are being transported to the Thorpe Farm Centre, off the A66 near Barnard Castle, after the Wetheriggs Animal Rescue Centre was forced to move when their lease came to an end on their previous site in Penrith.

Animal sanctuary director, Terry Bowes, said the new site offered more space for the rescue animals and that they hoped to open to members of the Friends of Wetheriggs by December before an official public opening at Easter.

It has more than 35 acres of grassland, a wood, wetland area, a huge pond for waterfowl and 1500 sq ft of indoor space while they are also planning on building a maze next summer.

“We are expecting to have 1,000 animals in by the end of the month but it’s a long job,” he explained.

Animals already in residence include Egyptian fruit bats, llamas and Shetland ponies, with the likes of giant tortoises, iguanas and bearded dragons expected tomorrow (Tuesday, October 21).

A 60-year-old vulture named George will also be a key attraction while other facilities include an arts and crafts space, shop and petting area.

“By the beginning of December we should be up and running and we’re hoping Santa Claus might make an appearance although he’s not replied to me yet,” said Mr Bowes.

Mr Bowes said was excited for the opening and wanted to thank the army of about 35 volunteers who have made the move possible and hoped people in Teesdale would get involved as the charity hoped to raise around £40,000 to cover the cost of the move.

“A lot of people have been donating because it happened very quickly but we are surviving on donations,” he added. “We have great volunteers and every single one of them are heroes who have got hearts of gold.”

Thorpe Farm Centre owner, Paul Barkes, said he was pleased the animals would be living in the converted piggery and hoped the animals would bring more people into the Centre.

“The buildings have been empty for ten years so it’s a fantastic use,” he said. “I think it benefits both parties because I’m always looking for attractions to add to what we are doing – it’s been a breath of fresh air for me.”

For more information on memberships or volunteering opportunities contact Mr Bowes on 07764-35283 or email info@wetheriggsanimalrescue.co.uk