Fife's Scottish Deer Centre set to re-open at the end of May after falling into administration last year

The centre has been closed since April last year, initially due to the Covid-19 lockdown and then due to its owners, The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Limited entering administration.

The centre has now found a new lease of life having been successfully bought by local gaming entrepreneur David Hamilton and Dundee businessman Gavin Findlay.

David Hamilton became aware of the Centre's troubles following a news story in the local press featuring local MP Wendy Chamberlain who was concerned for the centre's future.

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Following reading about the article, the two local businessman contacted The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Limited's Joint Administrators to the Company from specialist business advisory firm FRP and the local MP to begin a purchase offer and proceedings.

Following discussions, the sale has now been agreed for an undisclosed sum and the two local businessmen are excited to grow on what has already been built at the Deer Centre to keep it a popular tourist attraction for families both local and from across Scotland.

David Hamilton said: "I have lived in Wormit all my life, with my dad growing up in Cupar and the deer centre has always been somewhere we went.

"I was devastated that I wasn't able to take my kids to see Santa there last year.

"When I found out it was due to the park unfortunately falling into Edinburgh Woollen Mill troubles, I got in touch with Wendy Chamberlain MP who helped with the purchase."

Gavin Findlay added: “With a young family myself, I am really excited to see what we can do to the park.

"It has a great team of staff and can't wait to announce soon the plans we have along with getting the park back open when the guidelines allow us to.”

Wendy Chamberlain, MP for North East Fife, said: "I'm pleased that the Scottish Deer Centre has new ownership enabling it to stay open.

"The centre is a valuable business here in the area, creating jobs and supporting the local economy as a tourist attraction for locals and people across Scotland alike."

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