A ROSSENDALE visitor attraction has been saved from closure with funding from Rosebud Business Solutions.

Animal Quackers, an interactive children’s farm and activity park in Bacup, is under going improvements to attract more visitors after successfully applying for a loan and grant from Lancashire County Council’s Rosebud scheme, which specialises in investment for rural businesses.

Director Terry Bork, who lives at the Newchurch Old Road farm with his three children, said: “Animal Quackers was suffering really badly as we weren’t attracting the same number of visitors we once were.

“I am in no doubt that without the help I received from my daughter Becki and the funding from Rosebud I would no longer have a business.”

The cash is to be spent on fencing and creating visitor walks around the farm as well as transforming a derelict barn into a soft play area, canteen and cafe.

Terry said: “We want Animal Quackers to be a place where parents and children can come no matter what the weather is like for an enjoyable time.”

Animal Quackers also offers turtle and duck races, lamb feeding, bird shows and donkey rides and themed events at Hallowe’en and Christmas.

County Coun Michael Green, Cabinet member for economic development, said: “We are very keen to help people in rural areas to develop successful business ideas.

“As well as promoting tourism in the area, Animal Quackers Farm has safeguarded two existing jobs, created two new jobs and brought a disused 250 square metre barn back to life.

“We want to put Rossendale firmly on the map as a tourism destination.”

For more information about the attraction, visit www.animalquackersfarm.co.uk.