"This year could be our last": Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is appealing for donations to stay open

The Meanwood Valley Urban Farm may be forced to close in its 40th anniversary year due to a huge loss in income as a result of lockdown.
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The charity, which was established in 1980 to provide a 'taste of the country' within the city boundaries, is appealing for donations to stay afloat.

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Farm suited to an urban lifestyle

The farm relies on visitors and school trips to fund its work, but these have had to stop due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Jessica Mae Whiteley feeds the sheep at Meanwood Valley UIrban Farm's Easter Eggstravaganza in 2018 (picture: Scott Merrylees).Jessica Mae Whiteley feeds the sheep at Meanwood Valley UIrban Farm's Easter Eggstravaganza in 2018 (picture: Scott Merrylees).
Jessica Mae Whiteley feeds the sheep at Meanwood Valley UIrban Farm's Easter Eggstravaganza in 2018 (picture: Scott Merrylees).
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A statement on the Farm's fundraising page said: "After forty years of educating, entertaining, and exciting the people of Leeds, Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is at risk of closing for good.

"Every week, the Farm welcomes hundreds of visitors, schoolchildren, and trainees, who help to fund our charitable work.

"But now, with the country at standstill, we're losing a major part of our income."

The working farm provides educational services to disadvantaged young people and adults and offers environmental education to primary school children.

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The statement added: "Charities and businesses around the world have been affected by Covid-19, and Meanwood Farm is no exception.

"We're continuing to look after our animals - a big task during lambing season - and hope to resume our services as soon as safely possible.

"However, with a massive drop in our monthly income, the Farm needs your help.

"An outdoor space for Leeds. A habitat for wildlife. A place for disabled adults. An educational provider. A yearly Playscheme for the city's children. Countless lives have been touched by the Farm - please help us to continue our work in the future."

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