We have the passcode but the Apple ID was an email hosted by a company which no longer exists and therefore this isn’t an option to go down the email route. Thanks
activation lock is not a thing on the ipad it's a theft protection on apples servers
it needs to be removed How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support
if you don't know your appleID password If you have forgotten your Apple ID password – Apple Support (UK)
then you will need the assistance
of apple Activation Lock - Support (apple.com)
and or
And or
Contact - Official Apple Support
and or
My mother in laws iPad is locked and the activation lock is engaged. Unfortunately the email address used as the Apple ID no longer exists. We have the four digit passcode but that only takes us to the activation lock. Thanks
