THE famous Miniature Pony Centre is set to permanently close its doors to visitors this February, following what the centre has called 'a turbulent few years'.

The centre had been threatened with closure back in 2019, but had managed to continue 'by the skin of our teeth'.

However, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent cost of living crisis, the Pony Centre found itself struggling with increased costs and reduced sales.

Opening in 1986, the closure has triggered an outpouring of disappointment, sadness and support.

Fans of the centre will have one last chance to say goodbye, as it opens for one more week between 11-18th of February.

The general manager of the Pony Centre stated: 'It is with the greatest regret I must inform you that the Miniature Pony Centre will be permanently closing its doors. Following a turbulent few years, COVID and post-covid seasons have proved problematic.

'In 2019, we announced our closure, but by the skin of our teeth, we managed "last minute" to reopen our doors because we wanted to dig deep and give another season a try.

'We invested all our time, money and efforts to improve the business, which worked by all accounts as we survived COVID.

'By the end of 2022, the nation went into a cost-of-living crisis. Unfortunately, this was noticeable during our Christmas festival season when our ticket sales were highly affected, and our takings were down.

'With 2023 looking no better, costs rising at an alarming rate and days out with the family becoming a luxury that people cannot afford, it is with great sorrow that we have no choice but to shut our doors forever.

'Our main priority has always been that the animals are happy and healthy. We will ensure that all the animals go to the best, most loving homes.

'We have treasured welcoming our customers into the centre for many years. We have loved seeing all those cherished moments between you and our beautiful animals. So we would like to give you and your family one last chance to come and say goodbye this February half term.

'We will open for one special week from Saturday 11th to Sunday 18th February. Our most popular activities will be running, and we would love to see as many of you as possible.

'We will contact you directly over the coming weeks if you have a valid season ticket with us.

'Wormhill farm, known to many as the Miniature Pony Centre, is not just a business but a family. The staff and I have been deeply affected by this devasting decision. So many of our team have worked alongside our gorgeous ponies and donkeys for years, and we have created a safe haven for them and our customers.

'I am incredibly proud of our business and its reputation; we couldn't have done it without you.

'We hope to see you all in the February half-term for a final goodbye.'

Many people have shown their support on social media, with over 500 comments on Facebook. One fan of the centre posted: 'So sad to hear this news, I used to bring my girls, sometimes every week when they were little ones, now they are 13 and 11 they still talk about it, best of luck to you all and thank you for making it such a special place'

One person that worked at the park said: 'It has been an honour, a pleasure and a real joy working for you for what I think would have been 14 years this year... I am deeply saddened for you and the family, for all the staff, part-time and full-time, obviously for all the much-loved animals and for all the families that won't get to visit this very special place anymore.

'I'm also gutted that I won't get to perform here anymore... I was always welcomed and made to feel like one of the MPC family. I wish you ALL the very best for the future and we shall surely cross paths on occasion, after all, you're all friends now.'