A FAMOUS Sussex zoo is celebrating 90 years in business. To mark the occasion FLORA THOMPSON looks through The Argus archive at Drusillas Park as the owners appeal for visitors to send in archive footage of visits in years gone by.

DOGS clambering on top of a branded van is one of the earliest pictures of Drusillas Park.

This zoo has come a long way in the 90 years since and its owners are appealing for help to celebrate.

The park near Alfriston is looking to collect memories from throughout the decades to mark the occasion, and The Argus has taken a look through its own archive to kick off proceedings.

Chief photographer Simon Dack has found pictures of Dennis the flamingo, who had to be hand reared at the zoo in 2004 after his parents abandoned him at birth. The nine-week-old baby was named after footballer Dennis Wise because he was so small but grew to flourish at the park.

Pictures from our archives also show a visit from Princess Anne in 2003, Bruce the lovesick ostrich reading a Valentine’s card in 1999, a cheeky bearded dragon called Oscar who came to the zoo in 2000 and meerkats in 2005 who tucked into specially made ice lollies to help them keep cool in the hot weather.

The award winning attraction hopes visitors will send in scores of snaps and footage to create a short celebratory video to be played out during birthday festivities later this year.

There will be prizes, giveaways and a tea party for 90-year-olds to mark the occasion.

Laurence Smith, Drusilla Park director, said: “We have a very small amount of footage we have gathered but we would love to see more, particularly if somebody has access to any old cine films.

“Ninety years ago the park was established as tea rooms and a small zoo with the underlying principle of providing a fun day out for all the family. Times have changed but with our heritage very much in mind, we continue to provide each generation the best day out.”

Drusillas was founded in 1925 when the late Captain Ann bought a derelict farm and 20 acres of land – opening a cottage to sell teas to passing motorists. He named the tea room after his first wife, Drusilla, adding attractions and animals to boost trade.

The park remained in the family until 1997 when it was bought by current owners Laurence and Christine Smith. Joined today by daughters Cassandra and Caroline, the Smiths brought Thomas the Tank Engine to the park in 2007 and launched the first Hello Kitty attraction in Europe last year.