Wildlife group that rescued emu runs out of cash
A wildlife group that received a national profile after helping to capture an emu which had been on the run for several weeks has shut due to "lack of funds".
Preston-based National Exotics Animal Rescue Service (NEARS) said it had "closed its doors for good".
It said the decision had not "come lightly" but that it could "no longer sustain the company".
In November, it was drafted in to help catch the Emu - named Wiggles - near Spilsby in Lincolnshire.
The organisation said on its Facebook page: "One of the main reasons for closing is the lack of funding.
"We just do not have enough in our bank to carry on going."
It added: "With insurances due to come out, along with other expenditures required to run the company, we wouldn't be able to afford any emergency vet treatments for animals coming into our care."
NEARS thanked its supporters "who have donated, contacted us regarding animals, shared our posts, and had a passion for wildlife and exotic animals"
It also praised its "foster carers who look after each exotic animal under their care with as much love as they'd show their own" and "our responders for being the guys going out and collecting injured wildlife or lost / abandoned pets".
The company concluded: "It's a sad end and not one we wanted, but as they say all good things must come to an end, and we would rather do it on our terms and on a high note."
Its directors have been contacted for comment.
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