Former glamour model Jodie Marsh has successfully overturned a council decision that threatened to remove eight ring-tailed lemurs from her private animal sanctuary, Fripps Farm, in Lindsell, Essex. The victory came after a protracted legal battle with Uttlesford District Council, which had initially denied Marsh a dangerous wild animal licence, citing concerns over her handling of exotic animals.
The council’s refusal was partly based on incidents where Marsh had taken a baby meerkat and an owl to a pub, raising questions about her approach to animal care. Additionally, concerns were raised about the potential noise the lemurs might generate and the perception that Marsh viewed the animals as personal pets rather than as part of a professional sanctuary.
Marsh, who founded Fripps Farm in 2020, argued that the council’s decision was influenced by personal bias and was not based on the welfare of the animals. She contended that the lemurs’ current owner wished to rehome them and that they would be well cared for at her sanctuary. The court ultimately sided with Marsh, allowing her to retain the lemurs and continue her work at the sanctuary.
This outcome has been hailed as a significant win for animal welfare advocates, highlighting the importance of fair and unbiased decision-making in the regulation of exotic animal care. Marsh’s victory underscores the need for councils to base their decisions on objective criteria and to support individuals dedicated to the proper care and rehabilitation of animals.
