A new zoo is opening its doors fully for the first time to families very soon.

Bosses at the Call of the Wild Zoological Park, on the site of the former Tropical Wings Zoo, near South Woodham Ferrers, say families will be welcomed onto the site on February 12.

A spokesman said: "We are pleased to announce our official opening date of the 12th February 2022! Tickets can now be booked via our website www.callofthewildzoo.co.uk "Please pre-book tickets now to avoid disappointment (limited availability on walk-ins). We look forward to welcoming you all back soon."

Meerkats, lemurs, porcupines and wallabies are settling into life at the attraction.

Tropical Wings Zoo was one of Essex’s top attractions before it closed for good in December 2017.

The new zoo has already received support from the community.

The new zoo boss said the animals are coming from other zoos or private collection, and some are rescues.

They also plans to bring in reptiles and birds of prey.

Bosses have now touted details of the park which could see an African, Australian and American sections of the zoo as well as a native section to showcase some of the unique animals found in the UK.