Ossett petting zoo’s ‘heartfelt’ message as it announces permanent closure

The Watering Hole on the Farm, on Gawthrope Lane in Ossett, has now closed for winter, and will not reopen next year, a post on its Facebook page said.

Its spa – Spa on the Farm – will continue to trade as normal.

Posting on Facebook, The Watering Hole on the Farm said: “To all our loyal and regular customers who have visited The Watering Hole on the Farm over the last five years, we wanted to share a personal and heartfelt message from our family to yours.

“After much thought, and with very mixed emotions, we want to let everyone know that The Watering Hole on the Farm is now closed for winter and will not reopen next year.

“We are now permanently closed.”

It added: “The Watering Hole has truly been a love affair.

“With my own farming background, Steve’s love of animals, and our three children’s excitement, what began as a small family idea at our farm gate grew into a petting farm.

“We’ve welcomed thousands of visitors over the years — families, schools, special needs groups, work-experience students, and so many of you who returned year after year.

“Lamb feeding in April especially became one of the highlights of the year. Seeing peoples faces when the lambs ran out was magical.”

The post said the closure is due to rising costs and finding staff to care for the animals.

“But despite everything, we will not let a small moment of negativity overshadow the wonderful memories, the smiles, the laughter and the community spirit that The Watering Hole has brought into our lives. We are choosing to hold onto the joy — and we hope you will too.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for every visit, every message of support, every shared photo, and every happy memory. We are so grateful.

“Wishing you all a fantastic Christmas and a very happy and healthy New Year,” the post added.

The Watering Hole on the Farm’s Facebook page can be found here.