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Coronavirus Kent: Howletts and Port Lympne close

19:59, 23 March 2020

updated: 19:59, 23 March 2020

Two more Kent wildlife parks have closed amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Bosses at Howletts and Port Lympne have shut their gates until April 24, blaming the "unprecedented situation".

Howletts Wild Animal Park has shut
Howletts Wild Animal Park has shut

Earlier today, Wingham Wildlife Park announced it was closing and warned of "desperate times" ahead.

Soon after, Wildwood in Herne Bay revealed it was shutting in light of the government's advice on social distancing.

And this evening the Aspinall Foundation, which runs Port Lympne in Hythe and Howletts near Canterbury, confirmed it will close for just over a month.

It posted on its Facebook page: "In light of the recent government advice regarding COVID-19, it is with a heavy heart that we will be closing Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve and Howletts Wild Animal Park to the public and will remain closed until at least April 24, 2020.

A baby gorilla born at Port Lympne. Picture: Leanne Smith
A baby gorilla born at Port Lympne. Picture: Leanne Smith

"We are in contact with the relevant authorities and will work to reopen both parks to guests as soon as it’s appropriate to do so.

"We will be contacting Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve guests with bookings to stay between March 23 and April 24, 2020 to advise them on next steps.

"As a charity, we appreciate your support and understanding.

"This is an unprecedented situation but please rest assured that we are committed to the wellbeing of our guests, visitors, animals and teams here in Kent and overseas."

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

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