Giraffes' high demands made safer

The giraffes' food needs to be put six-feet off the ground

A zoo has stopped the task of feeding giraffes from being a back-breaking job by using a hoist to deliver meals.

Staff at Chester Zoo now use special equipment to put the giraffes' willow branches six-feet up, rather than getting the food up there themselves.

The zoo is a "shining example" of a business that helps safeguard employees from back injuries, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said.

The HSE is launching its North West Better Backs campaign at the zoo.

It says 80% of people suffer back pain at some point in their lives.

HSE Inspector Tony Trenear says: "The campaign aims to show people how staying active throughout a normal day can help them better manage back pain."

It is highlighting how employers how they can work together with their staff to help them return to work as part of a successful recovery programme.