Top tourist attraction prepares to take a walk on the wild side
One of the West Midlands’ top tourist attractions celebrates a major landmark this weekend and to mark the occasion is staging its annual charity walk.
Take A Walk On The Wild Side is one of the major events planned by Dudley Zoo for its 80th birthday celebrations.
The 5km walk, which takes place tomorrow (Saturday) around the zoo and castle grounds, will see walkers of all ages and abilities participate. Funds raised from the event will go towards refurbishing the zoo’s Orangutan enclosure, which is home to primates Benji, Jorong, Jazz and youngster, Sprout.
Many of those taking part are expected to enter into the spirit of things by donning fancy dress, with the 30s theme reflecting the zoo’s origins.
In addition, there will be celebrations at a post-walk party on the castle courtyard during the afternoon, with retro singers and a birthday cake, as well as a display of archive photographs and memories from visitors.
As well as the walk, the zoo will be running a series of other celebratory events during the year, including castle talks and tours, as well as paranormal nights.
The zoo also plans to redevelop several enclosures throughout the year, with the recent redevelopment of the capuchin having being completed. Work on its lynx and farm enclosures is now also under way.
Derek Grove, Zoo Director at Dudley Zoological Gardens, said: “Everyone at Dudley Zoo is immensely proud to be celebrating our 80th Anniversary. Since 1937, we have welcomed millions of visitors from across the world to our unique site to visit our animals and 11th Century castle, helping to ensure that we play a vital part in the cultural heritage of the Black Country.
“Moving forwards, we are looking to build upon the resounding success of last year, which saw us welcome more than 310,000 visitors. With the redevelopments that we have planned across the site, as well as the range of celebratory events that we have taking place, our 80th year is set to be one to remember.”
Opening in May 1937, Dudley Zoo is constructed over 40 acres within a 200-acre densely wooded site, which also includes an 11th Century castle. In addition, the zoo is home to more than 200 species, including Asiatic lions, Sumatran tigers, Rothschild giraffes, Bornean orangutans, and Madagascan lemurs.
