Former model Jodie Marsh has been given a new permit to house monkeys following a lengthy legal dispute. The 47-year-old has been authorized to care for 12 marmosets at her rescue center in Essex after prevailing in a legal battle with Uttlesford District Council. Marsh expressed her joy and relief after the council approved her latest application, emphasizing the importance of having the license to provide homes for marmosets under the new primate regulations.
Under the Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024, a licensing system was introduced to safeguard the welfare of primates in England. Marsh’s primate license is valid from April 6, 2024, to April 5, 2029. She raised concerns about the fate of small monkeys if their owners fail to obtain the required license, fearing that many may face abandonment or euthanasia.
Known for her appearances on the ITV series Essex Wives, Marsh has diversified her animal collection at Fripps Farm, which includes alpacas, emus, and reptiles. However, she recently faced allegations of assault at the farm, involving an incident with a man in January. Marsh denied the charges at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court and is scheduled to stand trial in May next year.
