A MUCH-LOVED city farm that has lain at the heart of Edinburgh for decades is facing closure due to a chronic funding shortage.
Gorgie City Farm has made a public appeal for funds after rising costs and a reduction in external funding have left it in financial difficulty.
Opened in 1978, the farm works with more than 100 volunteers every week, providing training, work experience and personal support.
Many volunteers are people with support needs, with long waiting lists to join, while the farm also helps teenagers from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing support and practical education.
Despite a grant from City of Edinburgh Council and the closure of a loss-making cafe, the farm, described as a little piece of countryside in Scotland's capital city, still needs £100,000 to secure its future as a free family attraction.
With more than 160,000 visitors every year, farm bosses are hopeful the public will rally round the charity and raise the money in time.
George Elles, chairman of Gorgie City Farm, said: “So many people have special memories of the sights, sounds and smells of rural life which they’ve experienced in the heart of Scotland’s capital city.
"But as a free visitor attraction and a charity we need you to donate today to save your Farm.”
While Mr Elles says he believes the funding appeal will ensure the farm keeps its doors open, the equivalent of eight full time jobs will be lost in the event of closure.
The approximately 50 animals on the farm would be distributed amongst other farms and charities should Gorgie City Farm close.
Lord Provost Donald Wilson said:“The Gorgie City Farm is a much loved and valued local group.
"What it does is unique in the city and is something we cannot afford to lose.”
To donate text “FARM44 £5” to 70070, visit www.justgiving.com/gorgiecityfarmassociation or send a cheque to GORGIE CITY FARM, 51 Gorgie Road, Edinburgh, EH11 2LA.
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