Hope Nature Reserve’s ‘heartache’ over vandalism

THE popular Hope Nature Centre, based in Southwick, has been forced to try and raise extra funds following vandalism at the site. The centre was already asking for help as the centre is closed during the pandemic, with loss of income. 

The centre is part of Fairfield Farm Trust which also runs Fairfield Farm College in Dilton Marsh, a charity working to support young people with learning disabilities.

Staff at the centre explained, “On the morning of the 29th June, Hope Nature Centre was alerted by a member of the public that three of their Dexter cows were wandering the roads around Southwick Country Park. 

“After safely returning the cows to their paddock, luckily without injuries, the full scale of vandalism was realised. Broken signage, benches, play equipment and rubbish strewn throughout the charity’s Animal Park, as well as several animal paddocks being vandalised

“Hope Nature Centre prides itself in being a community facility, but as a charity, the budget for repairs is small. Especially in the current climate, finances are currently under huge pressure due to the lengthy closure and subsequent restrictions on re-opening due to Covid-19. Needless and unnecessary costs takes funding away from the charity’s core task of providing a safe training environment for young people and adults with learning difficulties.

“The #HelpHope donation page was created during the Covid-19 closure to help support the Animal Park with its on-going animal care costs whilst we are unable to welcome visitors. Hope Nature Centre now finds itself in a sad position, where we also need to fund repairs for the damage to the Animal Park. You can find out more and help support the charity, Fairfield Farm Trust, on our website www. hopenaturecentre.org.uk 

“Hope Nature Centre has a number of wildlife cameras and also CCTV within the Animal Park, and has been co-operating with Wiltshire Police to try and ascertain who was responsible.  Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Police have stated that there have been several reports of antisocial behaviour in the area over recent months. If you notice any such behaviour, or have further information, please report it to the Police on 101.”