Plea for support to help popular city attraction survive

An urban farm in Leeds forced to close by the virus pandemic has launched a fundraising appeal to help it survive the crisis.

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is normally open 365 days a year for the public to visit its animals, gardens, and flourishing woodland.

It has been operating since 1980 as a city farm, when it was established with the goal of reconnecting urban people with their food.

Before the virus struck the attraction sold farm produce in its shop and ran projects for schools.

Adam Ogilvie, CEO of the farm, said: “I’m afraid that Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is going to struggle to get through this.

“We’ve had to close to all our visitors and we can no longer host the 50 sessions for vulnerable adults or the outdoor activities for around 150 local school kids each week. This all means a huge and unprecedented loss of income.

“We’ve launched a fundraising appeal to help us steer the farm through the crisis.

“In our 40th year, we had big plans to celebrate our big birthday with you all. And with a little help, I hope we still can.

“We realise it’s a hard time for many people, so any donation you can give would be hugely appreciated.

“While we’re closed to visitors and participants, life on the farm goes on. I’m so proud of the staff and volunteers who are still working daily to look after the animals, including our new lambs and chicks, growing food in our market garden and keeping the site safe.”

People can visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/save-meanwood-farm to donate or go to https://www.mvuf.org.uk/covid-19/ for more information.