DUDLEY Zoo and Castle is gearing up for its half term Love Your Zoo celebrations.

The Castle Hill attraction is joining in with the annual British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) campaign throughout the school holidays (May 25 to June 2), which aims to highlight the conservation, education and research zoos across the country carry out.

Throughout the week, staff will be shining a spotlight on some of the zoo’s most iconic animal champions and there’s the chance to win an animal adoption by taking part in a trail around the 40-acre site.

Zoo manager, Matt Lewis, said: “Love Your Zoo Week is a fantastic opportunity to showcase how BIAZA zoos are vital in the work they do day-to-day in helping save species around the world, but also how they’re a great day out for all ages too.

“We have lots planned for visitors including a full programme of animal talks each day.

“Plus, our colourful community art otter statues, which have been located at venues around the borough for the past few months, will be returning back to the zoo as we get set to celebrate World Otter Day during the week.”