Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Mike Thomas joined Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Cornwall's James Churchfield and Daphne Skinnard on air to talk about the donation on 8th September.

Mike explained that the Arc Trust started life as Mark's Arc at Newquay Zoo in 2001 catering for the needs of disabled children, particularly those with learning disabilities.

It began because of a boy called Mark Mowas who regularly went to the zoo but sadly died of an asthma attack aged 12. His parents didn't want flowers, but preferred donations to the zoo.

The idea behind the money raised through the Trust was to take animals to hospitals and schools for children who could not get to the zoo. The animals had to be handmade because of health and safety issues.

A full sized multi-sensory Jersey cow called 'Moo-reen' which could even be milked was made and also a dragon who breathed out bubbles and a full sized Shire horse.

Eventually the zoo was sold and the mission statement was changed to encompass the needs of all disadvantaged children. As well as raising money for other charities, the trustees decided to donate some money to the Precious Lives Appeal.

"We just thought, it's a Cornish Charity for Cornwall, the money is being raised in Cornwall and we would like to see it spent in that way."

The kindness of this Β£7,000 donation has enabled the Precious Lives Appeal to reach the Β£200,000 mark.