Children enjoyed a day of animal antics and adventure during an outing to Hamerton Zoo Park.
The trip was organised by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) for youngsters who are either bereaved or have a brother or sister receiving care at Milton.
Fourteen children took part in the action-packed visit, which combined hands-on learning, animal encounters and plenty of time to play and explore.
The day began with a fun, interactive workshop themed around “feathers, fur and scales”, where children had the chance to ask questions, learn more about different species and even meet a snake.
The group then enjoyed a train ride through the zoo’s immersive prehistoric area, where animatronic dinosaurs brought the landscape to life.
After a packed lunch, the group explored more of the zoo, including sightings of bears, tigers and cheetahs, as well as a visit to the aviary to see a variety of bird species.
One of the most popular stops of the day was the meerkat enclosure, reached through a tunnel that added an extra sense of adventure.
The fun continued in the zoo’s playground, where the children had time to unwind, play and enjoy being together in a relaxed setting.
“There was such a brilliant sense of curiosity right from the start,” said Ceri Dobson, EACH’s Groups and Events Co-ordinator at Milton.
“The children were really engaged, and it was lovely to see them learning in such a relaxed and interactive way.
“The train ride was a highlight, and it felt like stepping into another world. There were lots of excited faces and plenty of laughter.
“They also absolutely loved the meerkats, and getting so close to them through the tunnel was exciting.
“It’s those little moments that make days like this so special, and it was lovely seeing the children having fun together.”
The group, aged between five and 12, travelled from Milton, and transport was kindly provided free of charge by Dews Coaches.
Ceri added that sibling days are an important opportunity for children to spend time with others in a similar situation.
“They give them space to have fun, make memories and meet others who understand what they’re going through,” she said.
“We’re always looking for opportunities like this, and this was a truly special one.
“The staff at the zoo were very accommodating and welcoming throughout, and it was nice to do something a bit different in a safe, manageable environment. Everyone had a fantastic day.”
Hamerton Zoo Park is in Steeple Gidding, near Sawtry.
