Smarty is star attraction

The Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre has welcomed an eight stone tortoise to its ever-expanding menagerie.

Smarty is an 11-year-old male Sulcata tortoise - the third largest tortoise in the world.

They live in desert-like conditions and are capable of digging extensive burrows in the ground to escape the extreme temperatures.

Bradley Bellis, 10, enjoyed a keeper experience and was introduced him to many of the animals. “Smarty is amazing. I really liked seeing all the animals but I think he is my favourite,” he said.

The centre is open from 10am daily. Visit www.butterflyhouse.co.uk for more details.