Bill Quay Community Farm at risk of closure

The farm features a number of rare breed animals

A community farm on Tyneside has said it is at risk of closure unless it finds cash immediately and a regular source of income.

Bill Quay Farm became a charity in 2013 after Gateshead Council stopped its funding as it made spending cuts.

The visitor attraction and educational resource also breeds rare livestock.

It needs to raise £50,000 by the end of August to avoid closure. It is asking for regular donations, and also wants help from local businesses.

The farm, which describes itself as "the centre of the community in Bill Quay", is home to Tamworth pigs, Hebridean sheep and Bagot goats.

'Heart-breaking'

Jenny Wood, from the association which runs the farm, said: "The association is urging everyone to support Bill Quay Community Farm's emergency appeal and help to ensure our very special animals continue to receive care and that the project continues for the good of the wider community.

"Everyone - staff and volunteers - have worked extremely hard to make the farm a place to be proud of and it is absolutely heart-breaking to even consider the thought of closure."