DUDLEY Zoo has received its 16th consecutive Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Scheme award.

The certificate was issued by VisitEngland following a secret visit by the tourism industry regulatory body last year.

Zoo director, Derek Grove, said: “The report provides an unbiased viewpoint of the visitor experience we provide on a daily basis here at Dudley Zoo."

He added: “The findings compliment our staff for their knowledge, efficiency and appearance, as well as highlighting the zoo’s colourful website, easy accessible carpark and entrance, well-maintained ground, Safari Shop and our varied daily talk and feed programme.”