Meerkat Expansion in memory of Anthony Ward

I know this year has been rough for everybody so donations may not be possible, but please consider sharing this as it could find someone who can!

I’m raising money for the expansion of the meerkat enclosure in dedication and in loving memory of a loving son, a caring brother and a best friend to many, Anthony Ward. Myself and some of my family will be doing this by hiking up three of the tallest peaks in the Lake District, accumulating a total height of 2800m. We have already reached £1000 and I will be aiming to complete this sometime in August. I will confirm the exact dates in the future.

Anthony Ward was a kind, compassionate and intelligent young man who always put others before himself. He would be the go-to person for many family and friends for his insightful guidance given without judgement. He always had an impulsive need to help anyone he saw in a difficult situation, do his best to keep them happy and safe regardless if they were a close friend or a complete stranger. He brought happiness to any person’s day and has left a huge void in many of us. We all miss you so much buddy.

Anthony combatted his problems by being proactive with exercise, seeing friends, and latterly visiting the oasis wildlife centre. It was a place he enjoyed the experience of being surrounded by animals that brought him so much positivity: the meerkats particularly.

The goal for this task is to help contribute towards the expansion of his favourite animals that brought in light during a dark time. It would also bring family, friends and myself a form of peace knowing that the Oasis is actively supported to improve the livelihood of their already fantastically cared for animal family. In addition, we hope that the centre can continue to bring many people in similar circumstances the same positivity it brought Anthony. I visited the zoo on the grand reopening post-covid, and I myself witnessed how amazing everything was. It was extremely clear why it made him so happy; and for the happiness they brought him. We want to be constructive and honour Ant’s memory by returning the positivity in the form of support to this amazing establishment.

Any donation, big or small, or share will be gratefully and equally appreciated! I would highly recommend visiting the centre yourself as it is a great opportunity to take your family, children, loved ones or even alone for a positive experience. The volunteering staff are all knowledgable and friendly, the animals are very well cared for and  they have continued to do this for nearly three decades. We want to help ensure that this continues.

Please be aware that due to easing lockdown restrictions that all admissions are based on booking slots and you may be turned away without pre-booking.

Our sincerest thanks to you who have taken the time to read this. Our best wishes to you all x