A ZOO has been named one of the best days out in the South East.

The public voted Drusillas Park in Alfriston the area’s best animal day out in the Family Favourites Awards, run by travel

website Days Out with the Kids.

The beloved attraction pipped London Zoo, Fishers Farm Park in Wisborough Green and Cotswold Wildlife Park to the title. Staff are pictured right receiving the honour.

Park director Cassie Poland said she was “ecstatic” to have won.

She said: “The award means even more because it was entirely voted for by the public, which is just wonderful.

“Winning this award is a true testament to the hard work and dedication all our staff put in to providing an exceptional visitor attraction.

“Drusillas Park is constantly evolving and improving. We introduce new animals and attractions every year and are constantly adding value.

“This year we have launched a brand new attraction, The Rainforest Carousel, which is the first of its kind in the UK.

“We have completely overhauled and re-vamped our maze, which re-launched as Mungo’s

Adventure Maze last month.”

The park was founded in 1925 when Captain Douglas Ann bought a derelict farm and opened a tea room named after his wife Drusilla. The park is now owned by Laurence and Christine Smith.