The Chelmsford and Mid Essex Weekly Times is sharing memories of some favourite events at Tropical Wings zoo, in South Woodham Ferrers, following the sad news that it will close for good next month.

Owners Dennis and Rona Strong announced last week that they will close the zoo’s doors permanently on December 3 due to ill health.

The animals will all be rehomed, but it is not clear what will happen to the land itself.

There has been speculation it will be sold to property developers, but nothing has been confirmed. The Times has been unable to get further comment from Tropical Wings.

South Essex residents took to Facebook to lament the news of the closure and share their memories.

Kirsty Edwards said: “Such a shame, such a wonderful place to have on our doorsteps. Could Colchester Zoo not buy it and manage it so it remains open?”

Emma Smith added: “So sad. My daughter’s favourite place. Always top of her list for school holidays.”

Brenda Clifford also said: “I remember in the Eighties going to the farm shop shed before it all changed and was a very busy place then. Ripe for house development now.”

Becky Walsh said: “Such a shame, we have loved taking our kids there and now grandkids as well.

“We will definitely miss going there. Nice and local reasonably priced day out.”