Redwings Horse Sanctuary has set dates for the reopening of two of its visitor centres.

After careful consideration, Redwings Caldecott and Redwings Aylsham, both in Norfolk, will be the first of the charity’s centres to welcome back visitors, on a trial basis.

Redwings Caldecott will reopen on Saturday, 25 July, followed by Redwings Aylsham on Saturday, 8 August, with safety measures in place to ensure adherence to the latest Government guidance and to protect both staff and visitors, including a new ticketed entry system.

Lynn Cutress, Redwings’ Chief Executive, said: “We’re delighted to be able to announce the reopening of two of our centres. Having to close our doors to visitors, while the right thing to do at the time, significantly impacted our ability to fundraise – a devastating blow for a charity 100% funded by donations from the public.

“This next step has taken much careful consideration and we thank all our supporters for their patience while we’ve decided on the best way forward. We understand some may be disappointed that we are not reopening all our centres at this time, but we felt it was prudent and manageable to trial our new safety measures on a small-scale for now.

“Access to some visitor facilities will remain limited for the time being, however our centres still provide a valuable outdoor space to enjoy time with the whole family and a great chance to see Redwings’ work in action – as well as our beautiful rescued residents of course – so we’re very excited to able to offer this opportunity again.”

The new measures being put in place at Redwings Caldecott and Redwings Aylsham include:

  • Opening hours being reduced to Saturdays and Sundays only, between 10.30am and 3pm.
  • Visitors must book a time slot for their arrival to ensure the number of people at the centres remains at a safe level at all times.
  • Entry remains free but donations would be welcome towards the care of Redwings’ rescued residents.
  • There will be clearly marked one-way routes around the centres to help visitors maintain social distancing.
  • Cafes and play areas will remain closed for now, while there will be phased access to the gift shops and a takeaway drinks and snacks service introduced over the coming weeks.

Visitors are encouraged to visit Redwings’ website (www.redwings.org.uk) for the latest news on the available facilities before travelling.

The charity’s centres in Essex, Scotland and Warwickshire will remain closed for the time being. For anyone not able to visit its Norfolk centres, there are still plenty of ways people can show their support, including donating to Redwings’ coronavirus appeal or sponsoring one of its Adoption Star horses and donkeys.

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