Plunge for Paws!

The staff of The Fenn Bell will be taking on their most high-flying charity event ever, taking place on the 4th October 2025.

We will be teaming up with the team from Cats Protection to raise money for our individual charities by taking on a 12,000ft skydive.

15 of the staff from various departments here at The Fenn Bell will be taking the plunge in an effort to raise money for the Fishing Cats Conservation Alliance, as well as raising awareness of the plight of these animals in the wild!

We are aiming to raise over £5,000! With everything after costs being donated directly to the Fishing Cat Conservation Alliance.

Our story has been intertwined with the plight of the fishing cat for nearly 10 years now. We rescued two fishing cats from the illegal pet trade, many of you might know them, or have seen them on your visits here with us. Neville and Mertyl have now integrated into an EEP, a programmed designed around the conservation of the species in captivity.

These programmes aim to directly contribute to species conservation. For some species, it may be the only way they can avoid extinction. EEPs can contribute in various way, from maintaining a genetically diverse and stable population, building husbandry knowledge crucial for conservation efforts in the wild, as well as the education of our visitors and some programmes have been able to successfully release animals back into the wild.

Each EEP is overseen by an expert coordinator and a Species Committee. Our Head Keeper Connor sits on this Committee and has helped to develop the long-term management plan for the species as well as continues to work with the programme Coordinator and the zoo’s involved to better the future for this vulnerable species.

As we all prepare for the jump, keep an eye on our social media for updates and information about this amazing species.

It is for these reasons we have decided to fundraise for the Fishing Cat Conservation Alliance, a fantastic charity who are conducting research to determine the ecological needs of this unique species and engaging the community in conservation efforts. They aim to mainstream fishing cat conservation, to inspire fascination instead of fear, and to have a positive impact on the livelihoods of those who live alongside the fishing cat, from conflict to curiosity for the species.

We hope you all can agree that this is a very worthy cause, and we would love it if you could all show your support and help us reach our fundraising target!

Thank you from all at The Fenn Bell!