Sykes Holiday Cottages backing vital Chester Zoo work as three-year partnership struck

An Eastern black rhino at Chester Zoo
-Credit: (Image: Steve Rawlins)


Sykes Holiday Cottages has confirmed a new three-year partnership with Chester Zoo. The city-based holiday cottage rental agency, who first began working with the zoo in 2017, will continue to help fund its local conversation and sustainability initiatives until at least 2027.

One key project, Networks for Nature, will enable communities from across Cheshire to connect with nature recovery. From creating and connecting habitats so animals can thrive, to empowering people to take a more active role in growing biodiverse areas, Sykes will support a wide range of the zoo’s initiatives.

Over the next three years, 200 Sykes colleagues will also volunteer at Chester Zoo and get to know the animals it’s home to, as well as taking part in educational workshops and community events.

James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages said: "Supporting Chester Zoo is something which is close to many of our colleague’s hearts and we’re excited to be extending the partnership. Together, we can make a real difference in protecting the animals and wildlife which are native to our country, whether this is through research, volunteering, or raising awareness of Chester Zoo’s conservation initiatives."

Cat Humes, strategic partnerships fundraiser at Chester Zoo, added: "Our partnership with Sykes has already made a significant impact on our conservation efforts, and we’re thrilled to see this relationship continue to flourish. With ongoing support from our partners, we can advance our mission to protect endangered species and enhance biodiversity in Cheshire and beyond.

"As dedicated advocates for wildlife, our focus is not only on preserving habitats but also on inspiring a new generation to take meaningful action for the protection of UK wildlife."

Sykes achieved B Corp certification last year, marking a major milestone in the holiday let agency’s ambition to make a positive contribution to its people, the planet, and communities it serves. It now employs more than a thousand people throughout the UK and has operated its headquarters in Chester for the past 28 years.

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