Zoo fundraisers scoop top award

The EAZA honour was one of four special awards

Staff at a Cornish zoo are celebrating after their fundraising efforts were rewarded with a national award

Newquay Zoo was presented with the EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) special Shellshock Fundraising Award at a special ceremony in Bristol.

The Shellshock project supports the conservation of turtle and tortoise species in their countries of origin.

The award was one of four special awards which were open to zoos and aquaria throughout Europe.

'Brilliant achievement'

Staff ran a series of events throughout the year including events in Newquay, followed by a zoo fete day and then a 100-mile walk from Paignton Zoo to Newquay Zoo.

Stewart Muir from the zoo said: "This is a brilliant achievement.

"Staff worked very hard on raising awareness and funds for the plight of tortoises and turtles worldwide with many schools and organisations taking part."