POPULAR tourist attraction the Long Sutton Butterfly and Wildlife Park is set to close next year.

Rising costs and falling revenue appear to be behind the decision as director Peter Smeaton insists running the park is no longer viable.

Wages, rising heating costs, feeding bills and the theft of a safe containing �7,000 have all thought to have contributed to the announcement.

The park employs 25 full and part-time staff and, according to Mr Smeaton, is losing about �100,000 a year.

A post on the attraction’s Facebook page said: “It’s a great shame and it would not be happening if there was a way out. Let’s try and enjoy the time that is left.”

The butterfly park’s social network site has more than 700 fans and many of them have commented on the closure with sadness.

The popular centre - named the best large visitor attraction in Lincolnshire in 2008 - opened in 1987 but next summer’s season looks set to be its last.

The animals and reptiles which live at the park will all be rehomed and the gates are expected to close for good at the end of August next year.

The tourist attraction, in Little London, is currently closed for winter and is due to reopen in April for what is set to be its final season.