Animal Farm Adventure Park fire deaths leave owners ‘devastated’

Owners of a family farm attraction say the loss of some of their animals in a fire has left them feeling “shocked and devastated”.

The blaze broke out at the Animal Farm Adventure Park in Berrow, near Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset, at 15:37 GMT on Tuesday.

Firefighters worked to tackle the blaze until 20:00 on Tuesday evening, but the fire destroyed a building and several animals were killed.

Site manager Krystal Finch said the fire has had a significant impact on staff at the family-owned business, with fears that the farm may struggle to re-open.

Ms Finch: “It [the fire] was significant and we are dealing with it the best we can,” said Ms Finch.

“The fire service were outstanding, they got here so fast and we can’t thank them enough.

“They restricted the fire the best that they could, which was very difficult because there was a lot of hay and straw.”

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue service said the cause of the fire is thought to be accidental.

“We’re a family business, so our children are also devastated,” Ms Finch added.

“We’ve been here since 2009, and raised three children here from birth.

“We may be closed for months. It may be difficult reopening at all.”

Ms Finch said the park team are doing their best to pull together through an “incredibly difficult time” and said they have had lots of people reach out to support.

The site is currently closed to visitors, but Ms Finch said people can support by donating food for the animals.