Brora siblings pedal it out to help keep park's animals fed during pandemic
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An animal loving brother and sister from Brora are undertaking a fundraising cycle challenge to help a north wildlife park feed its animals during the coronavirus pandemic.
Ben (12) and Emma (8) Morris are cycling 200 miles over the space of four weeks in aid of the Highland Wildlife Park – the 105-hectare safari park and zoo near Kingussie.
The park, whose polar bears are a star attraction, is closed because of Covid-19 but still needs to raise more than £6000 every month for feed.
In non lockdown days, a trip to the park was one of Ben and Emma’s favourite outings and it was Ben who came up with the idea of supporting it.
Mum Nicola Morris, who works for Cairn Housing Association and helps out with Brora Cubs, said: “I was keen to encourge them to cycle, just to burn their energy off, but I thought they needed some kind of goal so we were talking about sponsorship.
“We were watching the news when a bit came on about a zoo in the south that was struggling for money. Ben came up with the idea of helping the wildlife park. They both love going there.”
Accompanied by Nicola, the kids are going out most days with the aim of cycling 50 miles a week.
She said: “We do different routes, sometimes we go via the Ford and up through the Doll or we cycle up to granny and grandad (Alec and Ann Hirst at Achrimsdale), although we observe social distancing rules.”
Nicola added: “I am really proud of them. It’s a great way for them to get out of the house and keep fit. It also helps with mental health. Their teachers are absolutely delighted.”
Earlier this week the siblings had raised £90 of their £350 target. All money donated will go directly to the charity.
If they reach their goal, the funds will keep one of the zoo’s polar bears full for a month.
A statement on the wildlife park’s website reads: “We receive no government funding to run the park, and without being open, we now face a real challenge.”
Click here to make a donation to Ben and Emma's 200 mile bike ride
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