WITHAM MP Priti Patel made a weekend house call to some rather unusual constituents.

The Home Secretary was invited by Colchester Zoo to meet their elephants and learn all about the hard work, care and attention that goes into looking after the animals. 

The MP’s visit comes as legislation, including the Kept Animals Bill, is currently going through Parliament, which makes seeing the elephants and their habitat particularly timely.

During her visit Ms Patel went to the elephant kitchen and heard about their extensive dietary requirements and later she had the opportunity to meet two female elephants, Tanya and Opal, in the indoor enclosure at the zoo. 

Tanya is an African elephant and the MP fed her vegetables and a coconut. 

She also witnessed a training demonstration and watched as the elephants moved to their outdoor enclosure.

After her visit, Ms Patel said: “It was a terrific experience to see the elephants close up and to actually feed one of them myself. 

“It was also interesting to be able to talk to the people who look after them and hear all about the care regime that is required. 

“Many of my constituents visit Colchester Zoo, where they can learn about the natural world, be inspired to take action to contribute to the fight against loss of biodiversity as well as enjoy a great day out.”

Zoo director Rebecca Moore added: “We were delighted that Priti could join us to see the elephants and to hear about the conservation work we do here. 

“With new legislation relating to our work going through the pipeline at Westminster, it is a good time to be talking to the legislators, for those of us who are dedicated to these animals here at the zoo and in the wild.”