Colchester Zoo has climbed up the rankings to be crowned Europe’s sixth best zoo.

East Anglian Daily Times: Elephants in all sizesElephants in all sizes (Image: (c) copyright citizenside.com)

The tourist attraction, which draws thousands of visitors to Essex, held onto its position as second best zoo in the UK, pipped to the top spot as it was last year by Chester Zoo.

However last year it took eighth place in the European rankings, but has now moved up two spots.

Animals at Colchester also have a global attraction, with the zoo placing 11th best in the world in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.

Alex Downing, development director at Colchester Zoo, said: “We’re delighted to hear the news as it is a wonderful endorsement of all the hard work that goes into making Colchester Zoo the very special place that it is, not only for our animals but also for our visitors.”

The 60-acre zoo near Stanway is home to more than 270 species.

TripAdvisor spokesman James Kay said: “These awards are based on the millions of reviews and opinions written by our global community of travellers.

“For Colchester Zoo to hold the title of UK’s second best rated zoo for two consecutive years is a fantastic achievement.”