Families have a magical time during Dream Night at Newquay Zoo

Families have had a magic time at Dream Night at Newquay Zoo for a very special reason.

Newquay Zoo opened late for an event for chronically ill and disabled children, along with their families.

It welcomed guests on June 14 for Dream Night at the Zoo, a tradition they're proud to have hosted for the last six years.

The event is part of a global initiative aimed at creating unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

Around 300 people attended the evening; they hailed from various establishments such as Little Harbour Children’s Hospice in St Austell, Ellie’s Haven in Looe and the Royal Cornwall Hospital's Oncology Unit.

The attendees got the chance to meet the zoo's animals, including zebras, otters, and penguins.

The zoo also laid out an array of activities and provided food and drink.

The St Dennis Ukulele Club Band fueled the festive atmosphere with music.

In addition to this, the Newquay-based Bounce Dance Academy performed for the crowd, while zoo rangers engaged the visitors with talks about the different animals and artefacts.

(Image: Newquay Zoo)

Other local groups joined in; Cornwall Fire and Rescue brought a fire truck for display, Clifton Villa Vets discussed their work caring for the zoo's animals, and Devon and Cornwall Police demonstrated fingerprinting techniques.

Families also got to carry home tangible reminders of their evening as Williams Caricatures immortalised them in drawings, and all this was offered free of charge.

Mike Downman, Newquay Zoo team leader of animals, said: "Dream Night at Newquay Zoo is one of the highlights of the year for all of us here at the zoo.

"We are so pleased to be able to help families make memories that they will be able to cherish in the future."