Dales wildlife charity faces losing its Horton-in-Ribblesdale home as MP offers support

Sir Julian Smith and Cllr David Staveley visited Craven Wildlife Rescue in Horton-in-Ribblesdale and expressed support as the Leeds Anglican Diocese considers what to do with the former school building that houses the charity.

Craven Wildlife Rescue, based in the former primary school in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, is facing uncertainty over its premises after the Leeds Anglican Diocese gained control of the building last year. Sir Julian Smith and Cllr David Staveley recently visited the rescue and expressed support for the charity and its work. The rescue was set up in 2019 and has cared for and released many thousands of wild animals and birds. The diocese has completed a survey of the building and is considering next steps, with selling listed as a possible option. Key details: - Sir Julian Smith and Cllr David Staveley visited Craven Wildlife Rescue and said they would work with the charity and relevant authorities to help progress discussions. - The Leeds Anglican Diocese gained control of the former Church of England school last year, has completed a survey of the building, and has not yet announced a decision; selling is an option mentioned. - Craven Wildlife Rescue was established in 2019 and reported taking in more than 750 animals last year, nearly double the previous year. - The charity’s area of work covers the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Forest of Bowland National Landscape and parts of Cumbria, Lancashire and North and West Yorkshire. Summary: Craven Wildlife Rescue’s potential loss of its Horton-in-Ribblesdale premises would affect regional wildlife care given the charity’s increasing caseload. Local MP Sir Julian Smith and Cllr David Staveley have offered support and said they will work with the charity and relevant authorities while the Leeds Anglican Diocese considers what to do with the building. Undetermined at this time.