Our Story
Clark’s Little ARK began evolving unintentionally in December 2012. A small piece of land at the former brickworks in Sanquhar, became home to our miniature Shetland ponies and donkeys. Being near the town, people from the local communities began to visit the animals. Watching the enjoyment shared between humans and animals was so rewarding and the animal family began to grow! In May 2013 tragedy and heartbreak struck our family. When our beloved son Clark passed away. Although Clark had many “labels” of disability, he was a happy, loving boy. Who loved being around happy, smiling people. Clark’s Little Ark was named in his memory. We know he would approve of all the smiles that take place at the Ark. The Ark has also helped our family deal with our grief, even on the most difficult days. We have been so lucky receiving support from the local communities and beyond, to help keep Clark’s Little Ark free and accessible as possible, to all ages and abilities. We are indebted to THE FRIENDS (AND THE WEE FRIENDS) OF CLARK’S LITTLE ARK who volunteer their own time to arrange meetings, fundraise, organise open days and manage all donations, bank accounts, grant applications and paperwork. This enables everyone to see where and when their kind donations are being used. The Friends and much valued volunteers also help with many manual tasks at the Ark where and when they are available. We are extremely grateful to anyone who supports Clark’s Little Ark in any way at all and hope the smiles continue for many years to come. Thank you from Alison and Ian Shankly and Family (Human and animal). Clark’s Little Ark can be found at the Old Brickworks. It is situated on the left-hand side of the road, just before the Civic Amenity Site St Mary’s Street Sanquhar DG4 6BS. Parking is very limited at the Ark and if specialist access is required then please contact Alison Shankly on 07943389018 or 01659 50123, email [email protected] or send a pm on Facebook. As far as possible we will try and make arrangements to meet your needs. Hand gel/wipes will be available at the gates. Please use these after you have touched any animals. For those who don’t have mobility problems, parking is usually available at the Sanquhar Station. The Ark is FREE to all visitors, all we ask for is a smile. Please feel free to go down the track and enjoy spending time with the animals. If Alison or any of the Friends are there it will be an opportunity to interact with some of the animals. PLEASE READ ALL NOTICES AS THEY TELL YOU WHAT YOU CAN AND CAN’T DO WHEN VISITING THE ARK.
