A MUCH-loved family farm attraction near Newquay has closed its gate for the final time.

Dairyland Farm Park at Tresillian Barton, which has been operating since 1975, shut on Sunday, November 3.

Families enjoyed various activities as the attraction was transformed into ‘Scaryland’ to celebrate Hallowe’en and bid a fond farewell, which included pat-a-pet, the mini JCBs, the hay barn, the pony express, the milking parlour and the Bullpen soft play area.

The owners, who bought Dairyland in 2019, announced in September that the attraction had to close following the challenges of Covid and the ongoing increase in operating costs resulted in the park making a significant financial loss every year despite two record seasons in a row under new management.

Around 45 jobs have been lost, including 15 permanent staff members, some of whom have worked at the park for 25 years, and many seasonal employees.

A rehoming plan is in place for the animals that live at Dairyland.

Many people have expressed an interest in providing homes for the animals. Home checks are being carried out to make sure they are suitable.

Dairyland Farm Park is due to be transformed into a new farm shop, café, play area, and spaces for local small businesses.

A spokesperson for Dairyland said: “We would like to thank everyone who made it an unforgettable final Scaryland and a bittersweet farewell.

“We have closed our gates one last time, but we are all filled with gratitude and a heap of sadness.

“The final Scaryland has been so much more than a Halloween celebration.

“It’s been a chance to say goodbye to the place so many have come to know and love.

“Over the last 49 years, we’ve had the absolute privilege of watching families grow, seeing friendships bloom, and witnessing the joy that Dairyland has brought to our guests. It’s a chapter full of unforgettable moments, laughter, and magic, and we couldn’t be prouder of every memory created here.

“We want to thank our incredible guests for choosing Dairyland, year after year, season after season. Thank you for filling this place with life, joy and laughter, for bringing your families and your stories to Dairyland.

“People’s loyalty and love have been the heartbeat of this place, and Dairyland simply wouldn’t be the same without each and every one of them.

“And to our remarkable team, past and present, there aren’t enough words to express our gratitude. It’s their hard work, dedication, and endless enthusiasm that has kept Dairyland alive and thriving.

“From the smallest tasks to the biggest events, they have put their hearts and souls into making the place special, and it’s because of them, that Dairyland has been a home away from home for so many.

“As we close this chapter, we’re not just saying goodbye to a place, but to a piece of our hearts, our home away from home. We would like to thank everyone for letting us be a part of their lives, their family traditions, and their memories. We hope that Dairyland will always hold a special place in people’s hearts as it will in ours.”