A YOUNG wildlife enthusiast and conservationist has abandoned plans to open an educational centre in south Shropshire.

Ashley Stanness from Craven Arms had been hoping to open a small nature centre in the area.

But his appeal for some land has failed to bring any offers and so the 24-year-old says that he has no choice but the drop the scheme.

Mr Stanness, who has worked in conservation, wanted the centre to provide an additional attraction for the area as well a job opportunities.

He had also hoped that it could be a facility that could be used by schools and other groups as an education resource to bring a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

It had been hoped by Mr Stanness that he could find a partner to work with that could provide him with a small area of land.

His plan was to use his own skills and experience to build the enclosures and animal accommodation.

He had not intended to have exotic animals but creatures such as meerkats that are popular with children do do not need very specialist care.

“Whilst there have been talks and I was hopeful, no offer of a site has been forthcoming.

“I have tried but have drawn a blank and so there is nowhere else to go and I do not have any choice but to drop the idea,” added Mr Stanness.