Youngsters got up close and personal with a range of animals as well as making their own during half term events at Colchester museums.

Children were able to see, smell, and even handle creatures ranging from snakes to meerkats at the Natural History Museum on Wednesday.

The previous day visitors to the museum were inspired by the stuffed animals on display to create their own “sockidermy” creations.

There were also activities at Colchester Castle, including medieval story-telling, and at Hollytrees Museum where people could make their own 3D postcards.