The Children's Zoo
The Childrens' Zoo

Work started on the Childrens' Zoo in 1955 in an area of the gardens next to the old Firework Factory.  It cost £15,000 and was opened by a stage actor Francis Lederer dressed as the Pied Piper leading the children into the new attraction.  In addition to the animals Willie a concrete whale was one of the more prominent features.  It can be glimpsed in the image below.  Willie was 32 feet long and 8 feet high and contained an aquarium.





Below are two images showing Matt Kelly, the Head Keeper, showing a group of children around the Children's Zoo.




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