Keeper death zoo in court

Kumara left Richard Hughes with brain damage

Chester Zoo bosses have appeared in court in connection with the death of an elephant keeper crushed by one of the animals he was looking after.

Richard Hughes, 34, from Werrington, Stoke-on-Trent, was attacked by a four-ton Asian cow elephant called Kumara in February 2001.

He suffered brain damage and died nine days later with his parents and girlfriend by his side.

The case against The North of England Zoological Society, which is accused of failing to ensure its workers' safety, was adjourned by Chester magistrates until 8 December.

The society is being prosecuted under Section Two of the Health and Safety Act, which relates to the welfare of staff.

It is thought that Mr Hughes was butted by the 30-year-old Asian elephant as she was herded to an outside enclosure.